*3.1. Lab-Scale Pellets*

Palletization is a challenging task when non-conventional wood pellets are produced due to their particular properties in terms of bulk density, geometry, and composition. In order to evaluate the suitability of rice straw to produce adequate pellets, pellets were initially obtained using a single press as described in Section 2.1.

Two different operational conditions were varied: Compression force (from 1 to 10 tons) and percentage (in mass) of added water (40 mg and 60 mg, corresponding to a 14% and 20% wt moisture content, respectively). However, the highest moisture content presented processing difficulties and so only the moisture value of 14% wt was considered. Physical (dimensions and density), mechanical (resistance to axial compression), and structural (distribution of fibers and presence of silica) properties were evaluated.
