The effects of torrefaction on compositions of bio-oil and syngas from biomass pyrolysis by microwave heating

► Microwave pyrolysis of torrefied biomass favored phenols and sugars production. ► Organic acids were greatly reduced in bio-oils from pyrolysis of torrefied biomass. ► Bio-oil from pyrolysis of torrefied biomass contained up to 7.5 area% hydrocarbons. ► Syngas from pyrolysis of torrefied biomass was rich in H2, CH4, and CO.