Home Botany Fast Pyrolysis of Biomass Residues in a Twin-screw Mixing Reactor
Botany JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

Fast Pyrolysis of Biomass Residues in a Twin-screw Mixing Reactor

DOI: 10.3791/54395-v
What you'll learn
  • Operate a twin-screw mixing reactor for fast pyrolysis of biomass residues
  • Maximize liquid product yield through controlled thermochemical conversion
  • Monitor and maintain reactor performance during continuous operation
  • Collect and analyze pyrolysis products from straw-type biomass
Protocol

Biopharma Insights A procedure for thermochemical conversion of biomass residues is presented that aims at maximizing the yield of liquid products (fast pyrolysis). It is based on a technology proven on an industrial scale and especially suitable for treating a straw type of biomass.

Difficulty
advanced
Total time
~4–6 hours per batch (including startup, operation, shutdown, and product collection)

Steps

1
Start up twin-screw mixing reactor system

Initialize reactor components, establish temperature control, and prepare feedstock delivery systems. Ensure all safety interlocks and monitoring instruments are functional before beginning pyrolysis.

▶ 01:05
2
Monitor reactor conditions during continuous operation

Observe temperature profiles, feedstock flow rate, and product collection throughout the pyrolysis process. Record real-time data and maintain steady-state conditions to optimize liquid product yield.

▶ 03:29
3
Shut down reactor and cool system safely

Halt biomass feeding, reduce heating, and allow the reactor to cool to ambient temperature. Perform post-run maintenance and secure all components before analysis of collected products.

▶ 04:50
4
Analyze thermochemical conversion products and yields

Quantify and characterize liquid, solid, and gas-phase products from pyrolysis. Evaluate product composition and conversion efficiency relative to initial biomass feedstock.

▶ 05:47
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