The DBFZ Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum in Leipzig, Germany, is a research institute with a dedicated focus on the energetic and material use of biomass and biogenic residues. Thanks to RISEnergy, researchers all over Europe can apply for free access to further their work on Hydrothermal Processing and Biomass Fractionation.
Researchers in hydrothermal biomass conversion often face challenges in accurately measuring heat flux and reaction behaviour under realistic high temperature and high-pressure conditions. Many laboratories rely on small-scale analytical tools that do not fully reflect batch processing with real biomass. Generating robust, reliable data for early-stage biofuel technologies (TRL 1–3) can therefore be difficult without access to specialised, well-instrumented systems and expert support.
What is the DBFZ Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum?
The DBFZ (Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum) in Leipzig, Germany, offers access to a specialised 1‑L stirred‑tank autoclave designed for reaction calorimetry of hydrothermal processes using real biomass. Operated under controlled high‑temperature and high‑pressure conditions, the system enables precise monitoring of heat flux and reaction behaviour. Complemented by a versatile reactor portfolio ranging from 7 ml to 100 L, the DBFZ provides unique opportunities to study process dynamics and scale up hydrothermal conversions beyond standard laboratory capabilities.
Researchers benefit not only from advanced infrastructure but also from the extensive expertise of the DBFZ team, who support experimental design, operation, and data analysis — helping users generate robust results and deepen their understanding of early‑stage biofuels and biomass conversion pathways.
What researchers typically walk away with
Researchers accessing DBFZ through RISEnergy typically leave with:
High‑quality experimental data on heat flux and heat of reaction under realistic hydrothermal conditions
A deeper understanding of reaction mechanisms in biomass conversion processes
Validated experimental concepts for early‑stage biofuels technologies (TRL 1–3)
Reduced uncertainty in scaling hydrothermal conversion pathways
Expert guidance on experimental design, data interpretation, and process optimisation
How access works through RISEnergy
Access to the DBFZ is provided through the Transnational Access (TA) programme of RISEnergy, which enables researchers to use world-class research infrastructures located outside their home country. The programme is open to both academic and industry researchers, at different career stages, whose main affiliation is in a country other than the one hosting the infrastructure.
Researchers apply with a project proposal and, if selected, benefit from:
- Free access to the infrastructure and its services
- Scientific and technical support from the hosting facility
Prepare and submit your proposal through the next RISEnergy Transnational Access call, opening in March 2026!
Explore more!
To help you assess whether the DBFZ is a fit for your research, explore additional materials:
RISEnergy also offers access to a wide range of research infrastructures supporting work in ocean energy, offshore energy, concentrated solar power (CSP), energy storage, hydrogen, ICT, integrated grids, materials, photovoltaics and more. Explore the full RISEnergy research infrastructure catalogue: