Optimum conditions for maximising pyrolysis liquids of oil palm empty fruit bunches

As production of palm oil is expanding, a more efficient use of oil palm biomass to obtain more energy from oil palm plantations is investigated. The work was carried out on a fluidised bed bench scale fast pyrolysis unit, with the objective of determining the important conditions and key variables which are required to maximise the liquid yield and its quality. The investigation on the impact of reactor temperature, varying residence time by changing the nitrogen flow rate and combined impact of ash content and particle size on the product yields is presented. The properties of the liquid product were analysed and compared with wood derived bio-oil and petroleum fuels. It was found that in all cases the liquid product separated into two phases presenting difficulties for fuel applications, which are critically discussed. Potential solutions are also proposed which include upgrading of the liquid for fuel applications and other useful applications.

► Fibre analysis, proximate analysis and elemental analysis were carried out in this work.
► Thermal degradation behaviour of EFB using thermogravimetry and differential thermogravimetry curves is in good agreement with other studies.
► Maximum yield for liquids was determined to be around 55% at reactor temperature, 450 °C utilising residence time of 1.03 s
► The low organic yield obtained for highest ash content of size below 150 μm is not due to low closure.
► The phase separated liquid produced would present a challenging fuel due to its high viscosity and high water content.