Optimization of Hydrocarbon Production in Catalytic Pyrolysis of Macaúba Epicarp and Macaúba and Baru Endocarps

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the catalytic pyrolysis process of three distinct types of biomasses: baru endocarp (ENB), macaúba endocarp (ENM), and macaúba epicarp (EPM). This was performed with the aim of optimizing the production of hydrocarbons and other volatile compounds of interest through the use of different catalysts. The catalysts utilized in this study were calcium oxide (CaO), phosphate mining waste (PO), niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5), and Ni/Nb2O5. The methodology entailed pyrolyzing the biomass at temperatures spanning from 508 °C to 791 °C, utilizing a micropyrolyzer in conjunction with a gas chromatograph with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for product analysis. An experimental design was implemented to assess the impact of catalyst concentration and temperature on the yield and composition of the volatile products. The findings demonstrated that CaO was efficacious in deoxygenating the compounds, particularly at elevated temperatures, thereby promoting the generation of saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons. In contrast, Nb2O5 was effective in the formation of oxygenated compounds, particularly carboxylic acids and phenols. Ni/Nb2O5 has been shown to be effective in the production of cyclic, aromatic, alkadienes, and alkenes hydrocarbons. Phosphate mining waste exhibited moderate performance, with potential for specific applications at high temperatures, with important production of cyclic, aromatic, and alkane hydrocarbons. Among the biomasses, EPM demonstrated the greatest potential for hydrocarbon production, indicating its suitability for the development of advanced biofuels. This study advances our understanding of the catalytic pyrolysis of alternative biomasses and underscores the pivotal role of catalysts in optimizing the process, offering invaluable insights for the sustainable production of biofuels and interest in renewable chemicals.