Pyrolysis and pyrolysis reactor in Renewable energy

What is Pyrolysis

Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of biomass in the absence of oxygen. It comes from the Greek terms “pyro” which means fire and “lysis” which means separating or solution. So, this process is a thermochemical process. It can also be regarded as a carbonization process where the thermal decomposition of organic material of high molecular weight produces solid residue of high carbon content and or some volatile products. The products obtained during pyrolysis of biomass are biochar, bio-oil and syngas (synthesis gas). It is important to note that this process is temperature dependent. So, the production of various products depends on the temperature range. At high temperatures, the molecules are subject to high molecular vibration which causes the molecules to break down into smaller molecules.

Pyrolysis Products at various temperature ranges

Pyrolysis occurs at temperature ranges of about 350°C-800°C. Pyrolysis at lower temperatures produces solid, and at high temperatures, liquid is obtained. At very high temperatures, there is the production of gases. Below are the various products. 

Temperature less than 450°C: Biochar is produced (solid residue with high carbon content for example charcoal, ash).

450°C < Temperature >700°C: Bio-oil is produced

Temperature ≥ 700°C: Syngas is produced (Syngas called synthesis gas is a mixture of gases such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane.

A simplified pyrolysis reactor

Pyrolysis reactor showing various parts

Remain connected. We shall see how to convert biomass in to electricity using the pyrolysis method. A practical illustration video will also be made available as soon as possible.

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