This study extensively investigated temperature and emission characteristics, and the performance of co-firing rice husk with coal in a cyclonic fluidized-bed combustor (Psi-FBC) of 125 kW(th) nominal capacity. The Psi-FBC integrated the distinct features of cyclonic/vortex and fluidized-bed combustion. Fluidization, without any inert material, can be accomplished by the stirring blades and vortex ring. The combustor was equipped with a multi-passes water coil to regulate the bed temperatures, varying 800-900 degrees C. Rice husk was co-fired with coal, a supplementary fuel, with coal blending ratios of 0-25% by thermal basis. The radial temperature profiles displayed vortex combustion along the wall, while the axial temperature profiles suggested a well-mixed condition in the lower part. The large depletion of O(2) and proliferation of CO in the lower part revealed vigorous combustion beneath the vortex ring. A reducing atmosphere appeared unfavorable to NO(x) formation. The combustor showed satisfied E(C), mostly > 98.5%. The optimum operating conditions with respect to NO(x) emissions were: (1) the thermal percentage of coal not > 20%, and (2) bed temperatures between 800 and 850 degrees C. Otherwise, NO(x) emissions would exceed the regulations; even CO and SO(2) emissions were well acceptable. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.