Navigating Pyrolysis Implementation—A Tutorial Review on Consideration Factors and Thermochemical Operating Methods for Biomass Conversion

Abstract

Pyrolysis and related thermal conversion processes have shown increased research momentum in recent decades. Understanding the underlying thermal conversion process principles alongside the associated/exhibited operational challenges that are specific to biomass types is crucial for beginners in this research area. From an extensive literature search, the authors are convinced that a tutorial review that guides beginners particularly towards pyrolysis implementation, from different biomasses to the thermal conversion process and conditions, is scarce. An effective understanding of pre-to-main pyrolysis stages, alongside corresponding standard methodologies, would help beginners discuss anticipated results. To support the existing information, therefore, this review sought to seek how to navigate pyrolysis implementation, specifically considering factors and thermochemical operating methods for biomass conversion, drawing the ideas from: (a) the evolving nature of the thermal conversion process; (b) the potential inter-relatedness between individual components affecting pyrolysis-based research; (c) pre- to post-pyrolysis’ engagement strategies; (d) potential feedstock employed in the thermal conversion processes; (e) the major pre-treatment strategies applied to feedstocks; (f) system performance considerations between pyrolysis reactors; and (g) differentiating between the reactor and operation parameters involved in the thermal conversion processes. Moreover, pre-pyrolysis activity tackles biomass selection/analytical measurements, whereas the main pyrolysis activity tackles treatment methods, reactor types, operating processes, and the eventual product output. Other areas that need beginners’ attention include high-pressure process reactor design strategies and material types that have a greater potential for biomass.

Liming potential and characteristics of biochar produced from woody and non-woody biomass at different pyrolysis temperatures

“…The lower yield of eggplant biochar compared to Acacia nilotica bark biochar can be attributed to the evaporation of water vapor, thermal breakdown of lignocellulosic elements, and the loss of carbon as carbon monoxide. This matches other studies on the pyrolysis of biomass 38 and is in line with the reduction of functional groups and the rearranging of carbon groups 39 .…”

Catalyst-Enhancing Hydrothermal Carbonization of Biomass for Hydrochar and Liquid Fuel Production—A Review

“…More crucially, because it can represent an unanticipated risk to humans through food chains, the proliferation of new pollutants, in particular antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes, has sparked worry across the globe [ 9 ]. In contrast, thermochemical methods and biochemical methods, (gasification, pyrolysis, hydrothermal carbonization, and combustion) can efficiently convert biomass and manure into energy in a short time [ 4 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. Previously, the most common thermal processes, like pyrolysis and incineration, appeared less effective in terms of energy recovery and value-added products, given the high moisture content of emergent organic waste.…”