Q-Team Tree Service Awarded MTI Tech Start Grant

Robert Fogg, owner of Q-Team Tree Service

Q-Team Tree Service’s Biomass Torrefaction Facility project was recently awarded a $5,000 Tech Start grant from the Maine Technology Institute. Q-Team Tree Service, a member of Biobased Maine, will convert wood waste from its tree service operations to higher-value biocarbon products through gasification and torrefaction. This process involves roasting biomass at a high temperature without any oxygen (otherwise it would combust).

MTI funds will be used to identify the highest-value biocarbon products (such as activated charcoal) and potential viable markets for these products. The project hopes to convert approximately 50,000 tons per year of low-quality wood to biocarbon produts.

Robert Fogg, owner of Q-Team Tree Service, hopes that this project will not only help create a market for Maine’s low-grade timber resources, but also grow good manufacturing jobs in Naples. “Our goal is to create good paying, year-round jobs for our currently seasonal employees, and create a good use for low-grade wood at the same time,” says Robert.

For more information on Q-Team Tree Service, contact them here and read their blog.