Evaluation of fast pyrolysis feedstock conversion with a mixing paddle reactor
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-2018
Department
Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics
Abstract
We have developed a pyrolysis reactor based on a unique auger-paddle configuration with heat transfer material (HTM) and proved to achieve high heating rates and fast pyrolysis. We tested ten different biomass types and obtained bio-oil yields ranging from approximately 40% for thermally treated wood, to approximately 57% for crop residues (corn stover) and 67% yield for woody feedstocks (tulip poplar). These results, as well as the solid char yields, are similar to those obtained for the same feedstock using a circulating fluidized bed. Tests conducted without HTM resulted in lower bio-oil yields (ranging from 8 to 18% decrease in yield) and higher char yields with similar changes in magnitude, which is indicative of slow pyrolysis. In addition, a comprehensive study and analysis of the material residence time and mixing characteristics of the novel auger-paddle system is presented. These results demonstrate that an auger-paddle configuration is capable of achieving the high heating rates required for fast pyrolysis.
Publication Title
Fuel Processing Technology
Recommended Citation
Zinchik, S.,
Klinger, J.,
Westover, T.,
Donepudi, Y.,
Hernandez, S.,
Naber, J.,
&
Bar Ziv, E.
(2018).
Evaluation of fast pyrolysis feedstock conversion with a mixing paddle reactor.
Fuel Processing Technology,
171, 124-132.
http://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuproc.2017.11.012
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p/6468
