Production of Pyrolysis Liquid from Pine Bark with Improved PID System and Analysis of Its Components by GC-MS

Abstract

In this research, the bark of pine trees is procured, dried, and ground in the province of Elazığ (Türkiye). In an inert environment, the liquid of the pyrolysis vapor is condensed using a double condenser system in the improved PID-controlled pyrolysis reactor. In experimental studies, using response surface methodology (RSM) in the pyrolysis process, temperature, time, and amount of mass are optimized. Two phases are formed in the obtained pyrolysis liquid and these phases are separated with the help of a separating funnel. Low-density compounds are in the upper phase, and high-density liquid is in the lower phase. According to the results, maximum efficiency is obtained at 376 °C, 185 minutes, and 519 grams of pine bark powder. The efficiency of wood vinegar is found by the ratio of the amount of acetic acid to components other than water. The efficiency is calculated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) values. Experimental data and RSM model results have been evaluated by statistical analysis. Considering the amount, color, and components of the pyrolysis liquid, an evaluation can be made about the quality of this liquid. Also, as the particle size of the pinebark decreases, the surface area increases, so the pyrolysis time reduces.