Abstract
This study optimizes pyrolysis conditions that will maximize energy recovery from the Beauty Leaf Tree (BLT; Calophyllum inophyllum L.) oil seed press cake. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the behavior of pyrolysis coproducts (solid, liquid and gas) at various temperatures and residence times. One significant discovery was that 61.7% of the energy (of the whole BLT oil seed) was still retained in the BLT oil seed cake after oil extraction. Controlled pyrolysis produced various proportions of biochar, bio-oil and syngas coproducts. Predictive models were developed to estimate both the mass and energy yields of the coproducts. In all experimental runs, the biochar component had the highest mass yield and energy content. Biochar mass yields were high at the lowest operating temperature used, but the energy yields based on a high heating value (HHV) of products were optimal at higher operating temperatures. From the RSM models, energy from the biochar is optimized at a pyrolysis temperature of 425 °C and 75 min of exposure time. This biochar would have a heating value of 29.5 MJ kg−1, which is similar to a good quality coal. At this condition, 56.6% of the energy can be recovered in the form of biochar and 20.6% from the bio-oil. The study shows that almost all the energy present in the feedstock can be recovered via pyrolysis. This indicates that commercial biodiesel producers from BLT oil seed (and other oil seed) should recover these additional valuable energies to generate high value coproducts. This additional efficient energy conversion process via controlled pyrolysis will improve the overall economics and the feasibility of 2nd generation biodiesel production from BLT—a highly potential species for cultivation in many tropical countries.
Highlights
Forest wastes comprised the second largest biomass resource produced in the coastal areas of Queensland and the Northern Territory of Australia [1]
Comparing the high heating value (HHV) of Beauty Leaf Tree (BLT) seeds with the de-oiled press cake, one would observe that about 61.7% of the energy from the whole seed remained in the cake
This paper described optimization of pyrolysis conditions for BLT oil seed press cake, which is a byproduct of oil extraction during biodiesel production process
Summary
Forest wastes comprised the second largest biomass resource produced in the coastal areas of Queensland and the Northern Territory of Australia [1]. These wastes include bark and post-harvest residues. Additional wastes are produced continuously as green wastes. These wastes can be used in biofuel generation. There is a need to understand the energy and mass balances in the waste products, including those in the oil seed extraction process to better utilize the energy from the spent wastes to improve the overall economics of biofuels production. By careful selection of the temperature and exposure times, it is possible to optimize conditions needed to maximize energy recovery from the spent waste materials
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
