Advances in sustainable biofuel production from fast pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass

Abstract

The review provides a thorough assessment of current developments in biomass pyrolysis research, including both basic research and technological applications. Recent advances in pyrolysis-characterization methods, particularly on the online characterization of biomass pyrolytic intermediates and spectroscopic and microscopic imaging methods for biochar and bio-oil are discussed. Then, relevant optimization and regulation approaches for the biomass pyrolysis process are discussed in light of the demands made to enhance the physicochemical features of the relevant pyrolysis products. Previous studies have shown that co-pyrolyzing biomass with another feedstock can improve the physicochemical characteristics of the pyrolysis products and efficiently realize waste recycling. As a result, this study includes a thorough assessment of current developments in biomass co-pyrolysis using four different feedstocks (coal, plastics, tyres, and sludge). Recent activities of catalytic biomass pyrolysis, or catalytic co-pyrolysis, are also described as an essential part of general biomass pyrolysis. Reactor design aspects and economic evaluation of pyrolysis technologies have been reviewed. Additionally, two cutting-edge heating techniques (microwave heating and solar heating) for biomass pyrolysis are discussed, and their advantages and disadvantages are contrasted with those of the traditional heating approach. This review is concluded with some predictions for the development of biomass pyrolysis in the future.

Keywords:

• Biomass pyrolysis
• bio-oil
• biochar
• characterization
• co-pyrolysis
• biofuel production

Authors’ contribution

Denzel Christopher Makepa-Conceptualization, Investigation, Writing-Original draft. Chido Hermes Chihobo-Conceptualization, Validation, Supervision, Writing-review and editing. Downmore Musademba- Conceptualization, Validation, Supervision, Writing-review and editing.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Additional information

Funding

The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Department of Fuels and Energy and Chinhoyi University of Technology, Vice Chancellors Scholarship of Excellence for rendering all the indispensable support and funds needed in this work.