Pyrolysis is a process where biomass undergoes thermal decomposition in the absence of oxygen.
How does biomass break down during pyrolysis? 4 Key Stages Explained
1. Primary Mechanism
In the primary mechanism, volatile compounds are released.
Chemical bonds within the biomass polymers are broken.
This results in the formation of solid char, bio-oil, gas, and water.
Heat transfer from the surrounding area to the biomass particles drives this decomposition.
An increased surface area of the biomass leads to better heat transfer.
This results in a faster and more complete reaction.
Biomass is typically mechanically ground into a fine powder before the pyrolysis reaction.
2. Secondary Mechanism
The secondary mechanism involves further decomposition and various other reactions.
This leads to an increase in gaseous products.
The extent of secondary decomposition can be minimized by maintaining a fast residence time.
This prevents the breakdown of products.
3. Final Products
The final products of biomass pyrolysis include biochar, bio-oil, and gases such as methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.
The composition of these products can vary depending on the thermal environment and the final temperature during pyrolysis.
At low temperatures (<450°C) with slow heating rates, biochar is the main product.
At high temperatures (>800°C) with rapid heating rates, gases are the predominant product.
At intermediate temperatures and relatively high heating rates, bio-oil is the primary product.
4. Versatility and Applications
Biomass pyrolysis is a versatile process.
It converts solid biomass into easily stored and transported liquids.
These liquids can be used for the production of heat, electricity, and chemicals.
It serves as the precursor to both combustion and gasification processes.
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