| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1196932 | Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis | 2013 | 8 Pages |
In this study, the effect of torrefaction on the chemical and structural transformation of lignocellulosic biomass was investigated using complementary analytical tools. It was observed that the acid-insoluble fraction was increased from approximately 30 to 38% and the methoxyl content was decreased to about half after torrefaction at 330 °C for 2.5 min. These results highlight the formation of condensed structures along with lignin transformation via demethoxylation. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy indicated that upon torrefaction the aromaticity increased from about 36 to 60%. For the sample torrefied at 330 °C, the non-protonated aromatic carbon fraction was found to be about 60% of total aromatic carbons, indicating the formation of large aromatic clusters. The complementary analyses used in this study are proposed as a suitable approach for the elucidation of chemical and structural transformation of biomass during thermal treatment.
► Acid-insoluble residue increased to 38.2 from 30.1% in torrefied biomass at 330 °C. ► 51% of lignin modified via demethoxylation in torrefied biomass at 330 °C. ► Aromaticity increased from 35.8 to 59.6% in torrefied biomass at 330 °C. ► Non-protonated aromatic carbon fraction increased during torrefaction.
