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Flash pyrolysis and hydropyrolysis of biomass

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5355720

Process chemistry data on the flash pyrolysis and hydropyrolysis of wood is being obtained in a 1'' downflow entrained tubular reactor. The data indicates that at residence times of <1 second, and 900 to 1000/sup 0/C and 500 psi pressure, the flash hydropyrolysis of wood yields mainly methane and water. As the residence time increases to >3 seconds, the products are methane and CO. Almost complete conversion of the carbon to methane and CO are obtained in these experiments. At lower temperatures, in the order of 800/sup 0/C, 500 psi and residence times <4 seconds, significant amounts of benzene and ethane are produced. The experimental process chemistry data have been used to design and evaluate two processes in a preliminary manner. One process converts wood to high BTU pipeline gas and the other to methanol and chemical feedstocks consisting of benzene and ethylene. Reasonable plant investments which compare favorably with coal conversion plant estimates are derived.

Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-76CH00016
OSTI ID:
5355720
Report Number(s):
BNL-31271; CONF-820814-11; ON: DE82015807
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English