Evolution of the functionalities and structures of biochar in pyrolysis of poplar in a wide temperature range

This study studied the change of functionalities in the biochar formed in pyrolysis of poplar wood in a wide range of temperature. The in situ Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy characterization indicated that aldehydes and ketones functionalities formation initiated at 100 degrees C, dominated at 300 to 500 degrees C. Carboxyl group was less stable than carbonyls. Cellulose crystal in poplar decomposed slightly at 300 degrees C and significantly at 350 degrees C. The temperature from 250 to 350 degrees C significantly affected biochar yields, while the drastic fusion of the ring structures in biochar occurred from 550 to 650 degrees C, making biochar more aliphatic while less more aromatic. High pyrolysis temperature also created more defective structures in the biochar and favored the absorption of the CO2 generated during the pyrolysis. The results provide the reference information for understanding the structural configuration and evolution of the functionalities during in pyrolysis of poplar biomass.