GC×GC in the Characterization of the Bio-Oil from Brazilian Biomass: A Review

Abstract

This study presents and discusses the state of the art of Two-Dimensional Comprehensive Gas Chromatography (GC×GC) developed in Brazil. GC×GC has been the focus of studies in Brazil since 2009, based on successful experiences in cooperation with researchers from Australia and Italy. The result of these researches led to the installation of many laboratories in Brazilian Universities and Research Centers, similar to others in foreign countries and the development of research, mostly involving applications of the technique to Brazilian matrices. In this review we present applications of GC×GC involving the pyrolysis of Brazilian agroindustrial residues, such as cane straw, sawdust, coconut fiber, fruit seeds, rice husks, spent coffee grounds, among others. The most used detection techniques for GC×GC have been mass spectrometry with fast quadrupole analyzer (GC×GC/qMS) and time of flight (GC×GC/TOFMS). These studies showed the possibility of identifying many organic compounds in the bio-oils produced, especially oxygenated ones such as phenols, ketones, acids and esters. Several studies suggest catalytic pyrolysis as a way to generate less oxygen-compounds directing the application of this bio-oil to the area of biofuels. However, the compounds found and their relative concentration, indicates that the best uses should be associated with the processing industry such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, polymers and food.