Pyrolysis
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Pyrolysis is a thermochemical term describing the decomposition of organic (carbon-based) materials, by the application of heat, in the absence of oxygen - which causes physio-chemical separation of the material into different molecules. As such the process can convert carbon-based materials into drop-in hydrocarbon biofuels, oxygenated fuel additives and petrochemical replacements.
[edit] Traditional methods
Traditionally charcoal was made by burning wood in covered pits, so without oxygen, then extinguished quickly. This was a hand method of creating the thermochemical process of pyrolysis with wood.
[edit] Modern methods
Pyrolysis of wood today is often industrialised and can produce bio-oil liquids, gases, and the char product. Initially the wood is carbonized at a low temperature in a kiln, then the temperature is increased up to 1000°C, turning the wood red hot. The charcoal is then quickly taken out of the kiln and covered with a powder to extinguish it and bring down the temperature.
[edit] Different types of processes
In general there are three approaches to carrying out pyrolysis:
- Conventional/slow pyrolysis.
- Fast pyrolysis.
- Ultra-fast/flash pyrolysis.
There are then a variety of different technical methods and also a variety of materials that can be processed to create fuels, these include plastics, tyres, biomass and general waste as well as others.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Advanced bioenergy.
- Biochar.
- Biogas.
- Biomass CHP.
- Biomass.
- Biomethane.
- Combined heat and power (CHP).
- District energy.
- Drop-in hydrocarbon fuels.
- Energy.
- Environmental impact of biomaterials and biomass (FB 67).
- Feed in tariff.
- Fossil fuel.
- Methane pyrolysis.
- Solid biomass.
- Stove.
- Renewable heat incentive.
- Types of boiler.
- Types of fuel.
- Wood pellet mill basics.
Featured articles and news
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.