Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
681713 | Bioresource Technology | 2011 | 4 Pages |
Catalytic microwave pyrolysis of biomass using activated carbon was investigated to determine the effects of pyrolytic conditions on the yields of phenol and phenolics. The high concentrations of phenol (38.9%) and phenolics (66.9%) were obtained at the temperature of 589 K, catalyst-to-biomass ratio of 3:1 and retention time of 8 min. The increase of phenol and its derivatives compared to pyrolysis without catalysts has a close relationship with the decomposition of lignin under the performance of activated carbon. The concentration of esters was also increased using activated carbon as a catalyst. The high content of phenols obtained in this study can be used either directly as fuel after upgrading or as feedstock of bio-based phenols for chemical industry.
► Catalytic microwave pyrolysis of biomass was used with activated carbon as a catalyst. ► High concentrations of phenol (39%) and guaiacols+phenols (67%) in bio-oil were achieved. ► This is the first report where activated carbon has been used for phenol and phenolics production via microwave-induced pyrolysis.