The carbonization process is the method of transforming organic materials, like biomass or coal, into substances rich in carbon by applying heat in environments with little or no oxygen.
This process is divided into several stages and can be further categorized based on the type of organic material being processed.
What is the Carbonization Process? 7 Key Stages Explained
1. Drying Stage
In this stage, the moisture within the biomass, such as wood sawdust briquettes or coconut shells, evaporates as the temperature increases.
This stage does not involve any chemical changes.
2. Initial Carbonization Stage
As the temperature continues to rise, the biomass begins to undergo thermal decomposition.
The components of the biomass, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, break down, releasing volatile substances like CO, CO2, CH4, and "tars."
These volatiles also include higher carbohydrates, acetic acid, and methanol.
3. Comprehensive Carbonization Stage
At temperatures ranging from 300 to 650°C, the biomass undergoes chemical decomposition.
This stage produces acetic acid, carbinol, wood tar, and combustible gases such as methane and ethylene.
These gases contribute to the production of high temperatures, and the biomass briquettes are distilled into charcoal.
4. Coal Heating Stage
For coal, carbonization involves heating the coal to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen.
This leads to the release of volatile gases and the formation of coke, which is almost pure carbon.
5. Volatile Gas Release
During the carbonization process, volatile gases are released.
These gases include methane, ethylene, and other combustible substances.
6. Coke Formation
The final product of coal carbonization is coke, a substance that is almost entirely composed of carbon.
7. Utilization of By-products
The by-products of the carbonization process, such as combustible gases, tar, and char, can be further utilized in various applications.
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