The history of pyrolysis technology dates back to ancient times, where it was primarily used for producing charcoal. Indigenous cultures in South America utilized pyrolysis by igniting materials and then covering them with soil to reduce oxygen, resulting in a high carbon material that could enrich soil nutrients. This early form of pyrolysis was also used as a heat source for cooking and heating homes, particularly in areas without widespread access to electricity.
In the industrial era, slow pyrolysis became common in the early 1900s, particularly in wood industries. This process involved heating biomass at low rates (5 to 7°C/min) above 400°C in the absence of oxygen, primarily to maximize coal production. Products such as coal, acetic acid, methanol, and ethanol were obtained from wood through this method.
The development of rapid or fast pyrolysis technology began to gain momentum in the 20th century. This method aimed to produce higher yields of liquid products, which could be used as fuels or chemical commodities. Fast pyrolysis involves higher heating rates and shorter residence times compared to slow pyrolysis, leading to the production of bio-oil, char, and gases. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, pyrolysis technology expanded to include a variety of materials beyond wood, such as agricultural waste, forestry by-products, and even waste tires.
Today, pyrolysis is recognized as a viable method for converting biomass into various useful products, including syngas, liquid bio-oil, char, and wood alcohol. The technology continues to evolve, with ongoing research and development aimed at improving the quality and economic viability of pyrolysis products, particularly bio-oil, for broader commercial use.
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