Pyrolysis is a process where solid plastics or other organic materials are heated in the absence of oxygen inside a reactor.
The heat causes these materials to decompose and break down into smaller molecules and chemical compounds.
This process produces a variety of products, including gases, liquids, and solids.
The gaseous products, known as syngas, consist of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane.
The liquid products, known as bio-oil, are a mixture of water and volatile organic compounds.
The solid product, known as bio-char, is a carbon-rich material.
The exact composition and distribution of these products depend on factors like temperature, pressure, and the time the material spends in the reactor.
What Happens in the Pyrolysis Reactor? 5 Key Steps Explained
1. Feeding the Material into the Reactor
The material is fed into the reactor and heated to high temperatures, typically between 400-900°C.
2. Creating an Oxygen-Free Atmosphere
The reactor is designed to create an oxygen-free atmosphere to prevent combustion and maximize the production of desired products.
3. Thermal Cracking Process
The heat causes the material to undergo thermal cracking, breaking down large molecules into smaller ones.
This process releases a vapor-gas mixture and produces fine coke.
4. Separating the Mixture
After thermal cracking, the mixture is separated from the charring dust.
This is typically done through a cooling process, where the mixture is cooled and condensed.
This condensation allows for the separation of the liquid pyrolysis products (bio-oil) from the flammable gases.
5. Utilizing the Products
The liquid products can be further refined and upgraded for various uses, such as transportation fuel or other industrial applications.
The solid product, bio-char, can be utilized as a soil amendment, sorbent for pollutants, or as a feedstock for the production of activated carbon.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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