Characterization of sulfur and chlorine behavior during pyrolysis of biomass and waste

The aim of this study is to characterize the behavior of sulfur and chlorine during the pyrolysis of biomasses (agricultural residues: corn residues and colza straw) and waste components (cardboard, wool, and PVC), selected for their different compositions and ash contents. Pyrolysis experiments were performed between 365 and 850 degrees C. The major parts of S for wool and cardboard, and Cl for PVC, initially present in organic forms, are easily released into the gas phase, even below 550 degrees C, with no interaction with ash-forming elements. For the agricultural residues, both the organically and inorganically associated S contribute to its release. Cl, initially mainly present in inorganic chloride salts (KCl, KClO4 horizontal ellipsis ), is only partly released. In the remaining char for colza straw, sulfur is associated with calcium as CaSO4, reduced to CaS above 800 degrees C; for corn residues, sulfur and chlorine are found as K2SO4, KCl and MgCl2.

Automated summary

The aim of this study is to investigate the behavior of sulfur and chlorine during the pyrolysis of biomasses and waste components with different compositions and ash contents. It was found that sulfur and chlorine are easily released into the gas phase, especially for wool, cardboard, and PVC. For agricultural residues, both organically and inorganically associated sulfur contribute to its release.