A Comprehensive Study of Biochar Yield and Quality Concerning Pyrolysis Conditions: A Multifaceted Approach

Abstract

In this research, we investigated the yields of biochar, bio-oil, and synthesis gas under various pyrolysis conditions, as well as their impact on the elemental composition, FTIR, EDX, SEM, and HCV values of biochar. This study utilized three different pyrolysis temperatures (400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C), two holding times (30 and 60 min), and two N2 gas flow rates (0.2 and 0.5 L min−1). We observed that an increase in pyrolysis temperature led to a decrease in the yields of biochar and bio-oil, while synthesis gas yield increased, as expected. Additionally, a higher gas flow rate resulted in a reduction of biochar yield from 34.07% to 32.72%. A longer residence time diminished the bio-oil yield but increased the synthesis gas yield. The FTIR, EDX, and elemental analysis of biochar produced at a pyrolysis temperature of 600 °C, with a 60-min holding time and a 0.2 L min−1 N2 gas flow rate, indicated maximized carbon content. Moreover, a more porous structure was observed at higher pyrolysis temperatures. The research also revealed that increases in pyrolysis temperature, residence time, and gas flow rate enhanced the energy content of the biochar.