Valorization of pyrolytic oil obtained through pyrolysis

Pyrolysis results in the production of biochar and value-added materials such as bio-oil. Pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass is a convenient source for the production of bio-oil and other valuable hydrocarbons. Pyrolysis of organic feedstocks will produce three products including a liquid (bio-oil), a syngas, and a solid (biochar). Bio-oil is created during pyrolysis because natural polymeric constituents (i.e., lignin, cellulose, fats) are broken down into volatile gasses. These gasses can be later condensed along the pyrolysis continuum into bio-oil or recycled to facilitate energy required for upstream feedstock drying and carbonization. However, often in many pyrolytic plants, bio-oil becomes a source of potential contamination. Bio-oil is acidic in nature and rich with organic contaminants such as phenolics. The raw disposal of bio-oil can lead to unwanted environmental problems. Thus, on-site management of bio-oil become an important criterion for many pyrolytic plants. This project aims to develop methods for the treatment and/or bio-valorization of bio-oil through various biological methods (mycoremediation, anaerobic and aerobic digestion).

Faculty Supervisor:

Hubert Cabana

Student:

Partner:

Charbon de bois feuille d’érable Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: