Abstract
Gasification processes require the use of cheap and sustainable raw materials, as well as the optimization of the process, for a suitable commercial use. Cistus Ladanifer (rockrose) could be a suitable raw material for this purpose, as it grows spontaneously in Mediterranean regions, and might contribute to the economic development of these areas. In this research, a study about catalyzed gasification of Cistus Ladanifer biochar was carried out. The aim was to characterize the gaseous phase and to carry out a kinetic study. The experiments were carried out in a thermobalance connected to a gas chromatograph to quantify the exhaust gas. The operating variables studied were the initial carbon mass, temperature, steam partial pressure, the kind of catalyst (ionic or cationic), catalyst concentration and the method to incorporate the catalyst (impregnation or mixture). As a result, impregnation was the most effective way to mix the raw material and the catalyst, with K+ and CO32− as the most active cations and anions used in this experience, respectively. Temperature and steam partial vapor showed a positive effect on conversion and gas yield. The use of ideal models for gas-solid reactions showed acceptable results for the kinetic study.
Highlights
The steady decrease in oil reserves, as well as the subsequent problems related to the use of this kind of energy source, has made the search of alternative energy sources necessary, as fossil feedstock cannot be regenerated whereas in renewable energy sources this fact is possible [1,2]
For the set of experiments where the catalyst was added through physical mixture, the results obtained hardly improved the results obtained without catalyst
Concerning the steam gasification of CistusLadaniferbiochar, we found the following:
Summary
The steady decrease in oil reserves, as well as the subsequent problems related to the use of this kind of energy source, has made the search of alternative energy sources necessary, as fossil feedstock cannot be regenerated whereas in renewable energy sources this fact is possible [1,2]. Among these sources, wastes from biomass play an important role due to their renewable nature. Many international organizations (such as the European Union) encourages the use of renewable energies [3] This way, gas emissions and the subsequent greenhouse effect can be mitigated [4,5]. Gasification carried out in non-oxidizing conditions, decreases the emission of pollutants and, as a consequence, contributes to palliate the greenhouse effect [5,7]
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