Fast Pyrolysis of Sisal Residue in a Pilot Fluidized Bed Reactor

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the fast pyrolysis of sisal residue, performed in a pilot unit with a fluidized bed reactor. The tests were carried out by varying the flows of nitrogen (8–14 N m3/h), biomass (10.33–25.95 g/min), and temperature (450–550 °C). The experimental planning technique was used to identify the number of tests and the influence of operational variables on the bio-oil yield. One of the highest H2/CO (2.16) ratios was found from the eighth test on, which was an appropriate value for the production of methanol and liquid biofuels. All bio-oil samples produced were characterized, and the results showed that the sisal residue bio-oil is different from other bio-oils reported in the literature. It has high viscosity at room temperature, with a pour point of 55 °C and average molecular weight of 414.2 g/mol. In addition, phenolic species completely prevail in relation to the other monomeric components. The biochar obtained is an amorphous, fine powder. Despite the porosity, it...