Fast Pyrolysis of Agricultural Wastes for Bio-fuel and Bio-char

Abstract

Fast pyrolysis is a thermo-chemical conversion method to produce liquid fuel from biomass. This process involves the rapid thermal decomposition of organic compounds in the absence of oxygen. The vapors formed are rapidly condensed to yield a liquid product called bio-oil. Since the major product is liquid, it is easy to store, and handle. Moreover, bio-oil can be readily transported to facilities where it can be most effectively used. Unlike other conversion methods for bio-fuel production, fast pyrolysis utilizes different types of feedstocks, therefore this process can be considered as a tool for solid waste management. Different types of feedstocks ranging from agriculture and forest residues to MSW, plastic wastes and animal manures have been utilized for pyrolysis studies around the world. Liquid fuel production using fast pyrolysis has received much attention in recent years. Bio-oil, the liquid product of fast pyrolysis, can be considered as an intermediate for fuel and chemical production. Bio-char, the solid product of pyrolysis, has multiple applications like bio-char from other methods. The chapter reviews different types of reactors used for fast pyrolysis, bio-oil properties, challenges and opportunities, and the current status of fast pyrolysis applications. In addition, the chapter discusses applications of bio-char and energy and economics of fast pyrolysis.