Thermokinetic Study of Catalytic Pyrolysis of Medium-Density Fiberboards over Beta-Zeolite-Supported Platinum

Abstract

Catalytic pyrolysis is an attractive alternative for converting biomass into energy and chemicals, replacing fossil sources. Efficient catalysts can be used to remove compounds containing oxygen during pyrolysis, improving the bio-oil properties and thus being an important route towards sustainability. Catalytic pyrolysis of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) residues over platinum (1%) supported on beta zeolite was carried out using a biomass/catalyst ratio of 1.0/0.2. The catalysts were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, flame atomic absorption spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance, temperature-programmed reduction, and temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia. The thermokinetic and thermodynamic parameters were determined using the isoconversional and non-isothermal methods of Friedman, Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO), and Kissinger-Ahakira-Sunose (KAS). The Friedman method was the most adequate to describe the reaction and thermodynamic parameters. The results show that the catalysts promote the reduction in activation energy compared to non-catalytic pyrolysis. Non-impregnated and impregnated catalysts showed different activation energies and thus different reactions. The addition of platinum slightly increased the activation energy due to the promotion of reactions that require more energy, for example, cracking and coke deposition.