Pyrolysis
Contents |
[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:
- Conventional/slow pyrolysis.
- Fast pyrolysis.
- 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
- Advanced bioenergy.
- Biochar.
- Biogas.
- Biomass CHP.
- Biomass.
- Biomethane.
- Combined heat and power (CHP).
- District energy.
- Drop-in hydrocarbon fuels.
- Energy.
- Environmental impact of biomaterials and biomass (FB 67).
- Feed in tariff.
- Fossil fuel.
- Methane pyrolysis.
- Solid biomass.
- Stove.
- Renewable heat incentive.
- Types of boiler.
- Types of fuel.
- Wood pellet mill basics.
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