Pyrolysis

[edit] Introduction

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical term describing the decomposition of organic (carbon-based) materials, by the application of heat, in the absence of oxygen - which causes physio-chemical separation of the material into different molecules. As such the process can convert carbon-based materials into drop-in hydrocarbon biofuels, oxygenated fuel additives and petrochemical replacements.

[edit] Traditional methods

Traditionally charcoal was made by burning wood in covered pits, so without oxygen, then extinguished quickly. This was a hand method of creating the thermochemical process of pyrolysis with wood.

[edit] Modern methods

Pyrolysis of wood today is often industrialised and can produce bio-oil liquids, gases, and the char product. Initially the wood is carbonized at a low temperature in a kiln, then the temperature is increased up to 1000°C, turning the wood red hot. The charcoal is then quickly taken out of the kiln and covered with a powder to extinguish it and bring down the temperature.

[edit] Different types of processes

In general there are three approaches to carrying out pyrolysis:

1. Conventional/slow pyrolysis.
2. Fast pyrolysis.
3. Ultra-fast/flash pyrolysis.

There are then a variety of different technical methods and also a variety of materials that can be processed to create fuels, these include plastics, tyres, biomass and general waste as well as others.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

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• Environmental impact of biomaterials and biomass (FB 67).
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