Catalytic effect of K and Na with different anions on lignocellulosic biomass pyrolysis

Abstract

Alkali metals (AMs) play an important role in biomass pyrolysis, and it is important to explore their catalytic effects so to better utilize biomass pyrolysis. This study analyzed the catalytic influence of K and Na with different anions (Cl^–, SO₄^2–, and CO₃^2–) on biomass pyrolysis, and explored the influence on the pyrolytic mechanism. AM chlorides (NaCl and KCl), sulfates (Na₂SO₄ and K₂SO₄) and carbonates (Na₂CO₃ and K₂CO₃) were mixed with cellulose and bamboo feedstocks at a mass ratio of 20 wt %, in order to maximize their potential on in situ upgrading of the pyrolysis products. AM chlorides had little effect on the pyrolysis products, whereas sulfates slightly promoted the yields of char and gas, and had a positive effect on the composition of the gaseous and liquid products. Carbonates noticeably increased the yields of the char and gases, and improved the C content of the char. Besides, AM salt catalysis is an effective method for co-production of bio-oil and porous char.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

alkali metal salt / cellulose / biomass / catalytic pyrolysis

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