Biochar production from sugarcane biomass using slow pyrolysis: Characterization of the solid fraction

Understanding how the type of biomass t and parameters of the pyrolysis process influence the characteristics of the biochar obtained, including its calorific value and potential as solid fuel, is important in generating alternative energy sources. In this context, this study assesses biochar production by pyrolysis of parent biomass (B), straw (S), and treated biomass (T, processed with H2SO4 0.5% (w/v) at 140 degrees C for 15 min). The pyrolysis process of B at 450, 550, and 650 degrees C, S at 450 degrees C, and T at 450 degrees C was conducted in a bench-scale fixed-bed reactor at a heating rate of 10 degrees C/min. The higher yield of biochar (50.3 wt% db) and bio-oil (26.0 wt% db) for the B was observed at 450 degrees C. Furthermore, the biochar yields for S and T at 450 degrees C were 36.8 and 31.3 (wt% db), respectively. The biochar produced from B, S, and T at 450 degrees C shows a higher heating value of 27.9, 25.4, and 27.0 MJ/kg db, respectively. The elemental analysis of the biochar produced from the different feedstocks showed a higher C (64.91-80.93%) and a lower O content (22.58-30.5%) than the parent biomass, indicating that the biochar has good stability and potential as an energy carrier. The approach followed in this work was to contribute to a more in-depth understanding of the valorization of subproducts of the sugarcane industry through pyrolysis to produce biochar that can be used as an energy vector or material for different environmental applications, contributing to the goals of a circular bioeconomy.

Automated summary

Understanding the influence of biomass type and pyrolysis process parameters on the characteristics of biochar is crucial for generating alternative energy sources. This study evaluated the production of biochar from different biomass sources through pyrolysis. Results showed that the highest biochar and bio-oil yields were obtained from the pyrolysis of parent biomass at 450 degrees C. The biochar produced from various feedstocks displayed higher heating values and stable elemental composition, indicating its potential as an energy carrier. This work contributes to the understanding of valorizing sugarcane industry byproducts through pyrolysis to produce biochar for environmental applications and circular bioeconomy goals.