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

Microwave pyrolysis of torrefied Douglas fir sawdust pellet was investigated to determine the effects of torrefaction on the biofuel production. Compared to the pyrolysis of raw biomass, the increased concentrations of phenols and sugars and reduced concentrations of guaiacols and furans were obtained from pyrolysis of torrefied biomass, indicating that torrefaction as a pretreatment favored the phenols and sugars production. Additionally, about 3.21-7.50 area% hydrocarbons and the reduced concentration of organic acids were obtained from pyrolysis of torrefied biomass. Torrefaction also altered the compositions of syngas by reducing CO2 and increasing Hy and CH4. The syngas was rich in H-2, CH4, and CO implying that the syngas quality was significantly improved by torrefaction process. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.