Abstract
The microwave liquefaction kinetics of corn stover in the presence of ethylene glycol (EG) using sulfuric acid as a catalyst was studied. The liquefaction apparent rate constant (k) was examined using a first-order reaction model. The k values of corn stover increased from 0.080 min-1 to 0.165 min-1, with the reaction temperature increasing from 120 °C to 180 °C. The k value of cellulose at 160 °C was close to that of corn stover, indicating that cellulose was involved in the rate-determining step in the microwave liquefaction. The microwave liquefaction rate of corn stover at 160 oC was seven times greater than that of conventional liquefaction with external heating. The apparent activation energy (Ea) was 22.6 kJ mol-1 and the frequency factor (A) was found to be 12.98×105 s-1. The decrease in apparent activation energy and the increase in the frequency factor as compared to conventional liquefaction kinetic parameters indicates a non-thermal effect of microwave in the liquefaction of corn stover, which explains the acceleration mechanism of liquefaction with microwaves.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
