Heat in pyrolysis is supplied through a combination of direct and indirect heat exchange methods. These methods ensure that the biomass is heated efficiently to achieve the desired pyrolysis products.
5 Key Methods Explained
1. Direct Heat Exchange
In direct heat exchange, the heat carrier or gas stream is heated externally. This is often done by combusting the char residue from previous pyrolysis reactions. The heated carrier is then introduced into the reactor where it transfers heat directly to the biomass.
2. Hot Gas Stream in Fluidized Bed Reactors
The use of a hot gas stream is common in fluidized bed reactors. The gas not only serves as the heat carrier but also fluidizes the biomass particles, enhancing heat and mass transfer.
3. Partial Combustion Within the Reactor
Partial combustion within the reactor is achieved by adding controlled amounts of air. This method, although not strictly pyrolysis, is effective in achieving thermochemical liquefaction similar to pyrolysis.
4. Indirect Heat Exchange
Indirect heat exchange involves the transfer of heat from a source to the biomass without direct contact. This is typically done through the reactor walls or internal tubes/plates that are heated externally.
5. Heat Transfer Mechanisms
The primary mechanisms of heat transfer in pyrolysis reactors are convection (gas-solid) and conduction (solid-solid). In fluidized bed reactors, conduction is particularly effective, accounting for about 90% of the heat transfer.
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