Residence Time Influence on the Fast Pyrolysis of Loblolly Pine Biomass

Abstract

Bio-oils were produced within a fast pyrolysis microreactor at $400°C$ from Pinus taeda (Loblolly pine) with varying residence times. This study has considered six residence times, evaluating the products of the reaction between 10 s and 120 s. The collected bio-oils and solids were analyzed for their calorific values and yields. Heating rates greater than $100°C/s$ were achieved, allowing for isothermal conditions throughout the majority of the reaction despite short residence times. The predictive capabilities of thermogravimetric analysis derived Arrhenius coefficients are evaluated and a new two component degradation model is empirically derived, showing a much improved representation of the fast pyrolysis process.