Determination of activation energy of linseed pyrolysis using thermogravimetry

Abstract

Pyrolysis is a thermal decomposition process based on a series of complex reactions that are influenced by many factors, such as heating rate, temperature, pressure, residence time, moisture, composition of biomass material and size of particles. The most common technique for the kinetic analysis of thermal decomposition process is thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The TGA of the linseed seed (Linum usitatissimum L.) at 20°C/min, 25°C/min in the air and 25°C/min in the N2 atmosphere was studied and the kinetic parameter (activation energy) was determined by using thermogravimetric curves. The results showed that linseed seed can be characterised as high calorific value and high volatile matter content biomass material. Kinetic analysis of linseed seed was also given a meticulous attention. Linseed seed has the potential either to be converted into bio-fuels, useful chemicals feedstock or used as fuel for energy.