Bio-oil is a complex mixture of oxygenated organic compounds derived from biomass through a process called pyrolysis.
Key elements of bio-oil include high water content, high oxygen content, acidic nature, and a lower heating value compared to conventional fuel oils.
It is also characterized by its density, viscosity, and potential instability.
7 Key Features Explained
1. High Water Content
Bio-oil typically contains 14–33 wt% of water.
This high water content can lead to phase separation in bio-oil if the water content exceeds certain levels.
2. High Oxygen Content
Bio-oil has a high oxygen content, ranging from 35-50%.
This high oxygen content is responsible for the oil's high acidity (pH as low as ~2) and contributes to its corrosive nature.
3. Acidic Nature
Due to its high oxygen content, bio-oil is acidic and corrosive to metal.
This property necessitates special handling and storage considerations to prevent damage to equipment.
4. Lower Heating Value
The heating value of bio-oil ranges from 15–22 MJ/kg.
This is significantly lower than that of conventional fuel oil (43–46 MJ/kg).
The lower heating value is primarily due to the presence of oxygenated compounds, which reduce the energy density of the oil.
5. Density and Viscosity
Bio-oil has a density of 1.10-1.25 g/mL, which is heavier than water.
Its viscosity can range from 20-1000 cp at 40°C, indicating a wide range of fluid properties that can affect its flow and handling characteristics.
6. Instability
Bio-oil is thermally and oxidatively unstable.
This can lead to polymerization, agglomeration, or oxidative reactions that increase viscosity and volatility.
This instability makes it challenging to distill or further refine the oil without proper treatment.
7. Contaminants and Solid Residues
Bio-oil can contain contaminants and has high solid residues, up to 40%.
These solids can affect the oil's quality and usability, necessitating additional processing to remove or reduce them.
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