Bamboo pyrolysis using TG–FTIR and a lab-scale reactor: Analysis of pyrolysis behavior, product properties, and carbon and energy yields

Abstract

Slow pyrolysis of moso bamboo was performed using thermogravimetry–Fourier transform infrared analysis (TG–FTIR) and a laboratory-scale pyrolysis reactor. The effects of temperature on slow pyrolysis behavior, product properties, and carbon and energy yields at pyrolysis temperatures of 300–700°C were discussed. Typical compounds such as CO2, H2O, CH4, and CO were identified by their characteristic absorbance. The changes in the absorbance of volatiles during pyrolysis agreed with the weight loss in the derivative thermogravimetric curve. With increased temperature, biochar yield decreased while non-condensable gas yield increased. The bio-oil achieved the highest yield of 36.57% at 500°C. Biochar was considered the primary product of pyrolysis because it had 41% or higher carbon and energy yields. Bio-oil and non-condensable gas contained 50–60% of carbon and energy content when the pyrolysis temperature was >400°C. Therefore, these three types of products as valuable resources should be developed together for utilization.