Catalytic conversion of the heavy fraction of bio-oil into phenol-rich oils using an Fe-carbon catalyst during straw pyrolysis

Abstract

This study examines the catalytic cracking of the heavy fraction of bio-oil to produce phenol-rich oils, emphasizing the enhancement of biochar-based catalysts through the incorporation of metallic iron (Fe) species. Results indicate that the Fe-carbon catalyst significantly enhances the conversion of heavy oil constituents into phenolic compounds, increasing the relative content of phenolics from 41 % to over 76 %, compared to unenhanced co-pyrolysis, which primarily yielded methylphenols, phenol, 2-methylphenol, and 3-methylphenol. These findings suggest that the heavy fraction of bio-oil, typically abundant in macromolecular compounds, offers viable opportunities for the targeted production of phenolic oils utilizing Fe-carbon catalysts. The findings suggest a viable pathway for the conversion of bio-oil heavy fractions into valuable phenolic compounds, highlighting the potential for industrial applications and the optimization of biorefinery processes.