Evaluating the evolution and impact of wood vinegar research: A bibliometric study

Abstract

Wood vinegar, a valuable byproduct of biomass pyrolysis, has gained increasing attention due to its potential applications in agriculture, forestry, environmental sectors and other fields. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research conducted in the field of wood vinegar during the period 2002–2022. The aim is to explore research productivity, collaboration patterns, and publication trends in this domain. A systematic search of the Scopus database yielded 460 scientific articles from journal sources. The collected data were analyzed using bibliometric techniques, including co-authorship analysis, citation analysis, and keyword co-occurrence analysis. The results reveal a steady growth in the number of publications on wood vinegar over the years, indicating a growing research interest in the field. The number of papers published each year increased from 7 in 2002–79 in 2022. The growth increase in 2022 versus 2019 was + 170%. Analysis of authorship patterns highlighted key contributors and collaborative networks within the research community. The most productive country was China with 191 papers. Citation analysis provided insights into influential studies and the impact of research in the field. Through keyword co-occurrence analysis, the study identified prominent research themes and emerging topics within wood vinegar research. This bibliometric analysis offers a comprehensive overview of the research landscape in the field of wood vinegar, facilitating a better understanding of its progress, impact, and potential avenues for future research.