Addition of Hydrocarbon Components to Products in the Catalytic Pyrolysis of Sawdust by Natural Catalysts

Nattadon Pannucharoenwong1

Snunkhaem Echaroj1,*,Email

Keyoon Duanguppama2,*,Email

Suwipong Hemathulin3

Chinnapat Turakarn2

Kumpanat Chaiphet2

Phadungsak Rattanadecho1

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, Bangkok, 10100, Thailand
Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, Kalasin University, Kalasin, 46000, Thailand
Department of Mechanical and Industrial, Faculty of Industrial Technology, Rajabhat Sakon Nakhon University, Sakon Nakhon, 47000, Thailand

 

Abstract

The research aims to enhance the hydrocarbon components in the products acquired from the fast pyrolysis of sawdust, employing natural zeolite and dolomite catalysts. The investigation focuses on assessing the impact on yield, properties, and energy content of the products. The experiment involves utilizing 1 kg of biomass, lasting for 1 hour, and incorporating 1 kg of catalyst. The catalyst was introduced into both the reactor and the hot filter. The results show that the application of natural zeolite and dolomite catalysts in sawdust pyrolysis leads to a reduction in bio-oil yield of 2 wt% while simultaneously enhancing gas production. This is attributed to the catalysts alteration of the chemical make-up of pyrolysis vapor, resulting in elevated concentrations of carbon and hydrogen in the bio-oil. The results of the analysis of the bio-oil also show that the natural zeolite catalyst increases the heating value up to 38.1 MJ/kg. The results of the chemical composition analysis indicate that the two catalysts helped to increase the composition in the hydrocarbon group. In catalytic pyrolysis, the char product experiences an augmentation in both carbon and hydrogen content, leading to a higher calorific value. The experimental outcomes suggest that for enhancing energy efficiency in bio-oil, the utilization of natural zeolite catalysts is recommended. Conversely, to bolster efficiency in gas products, the preferred choice is the deployment of dolomite catalysts.