Biomass pyrolysis is a process used to convert waste biomass into valuable products such as biofuels, chemicals, and other substances. It involves heating biomass in an oxygen-free environment to produce biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Pyrolysis yields mainly biochar at low temperatures, less than 450°C, and mainly gases at high temperatures, greater than 800°C, with rapid heating rates. Biomass pyrolysis offers a flexible and attractive way of converting solid biomass into an easily stored and transported liquid, which can be successfully used for the production of heat, electricity, and chemicals.
The process can be performed at small-scale and remote locations which enhance energy density of the biomass resource and reduce transport and handling costs. Overall, biomass pyrolysis offers a number of environmental and economic benefits when carried out in a responsible manner.
