Chapter 3 - Analytical Techniques as a Tool to Understand the Reaction Mechanism

Abstract

Thermal decomposition of biomass samples and the major macromolecular constituents of lignocellulosic biomass are reviewed in this chapter. Special emphasis has been placed on the results of the thermoanalytical methods and analytical pyrolysis. On the basis of the product distribution of the thermal decomposition, the possible major decomposition mechanisms are discussed. The influence of the inherent inorganic components of biomass on the thermal decomposition of cellulose and lignin are demonstrated. Furthermore, the effects of low-temperature heat treatment and torrefaction on the thermal conversions are also summarized.