Pyrolysis of Biomass

Abstract

The energy crisis is a major issue of concern which is mainly associated with rapid population and economic growth. With the increasing trend in annual energy demand, there is a high dependence on fossil fuels to meet this expected increase in energy demand. However, the use of fossil fuels results in a substantial amount of environmental pollution, and this is why nowadays, a lot of researches are geared towards the generation of green and renewable energy. As such, thermochemical processes, particularly the pyrolysis process, are getting a lot of recognition lately. In this chapter, slow, fast and flash pyrolysis is reviewed. For the production of biochar, a low heating rate and temperature are employed. Bio-oil production is favoured at a high temperature together with a high heating rate. A short vapour residence time is also employed for bio-oil production. While for gas production, a long vapour residence time is favoured. This is employed together with a high temperature and a high heating rate. The operating conditions to be employed will depend on the final product desired. Pyrolysis effect on biochar properties and characterisation of biomass and biochar are included here. As thermochemical processes claim to be carbon neutral processes, investing in those technologies for biofuel production will help achieve a sustainable and green future.