A rigorous process modeling methodology for biomass fast pyrolysis with an entrained-flow reactor

Journal Article · 16 August 2019 · Journal of Advanced Manufacturing and Processing

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/amp2.10031 · OSTI ID:1604905

Caudle, Benjamin H. ^[1]; Gorensek, Maximilian B.  ^[2]; Chen, Chau‐Chyun  ^[3]

---

1. Texas Tech Univ., Lubbock, TX (United States); Savannah River Consulting, LLC, Aiken, SC (United States)
2. Savannah River Site (SRS), Aiken, SC (United States). Savannah River National Lab. (SRNL)
3. Texas Tech Univ., Lubbock, TX (United States)

A biomass fast pyrolysis model was developed for implementation in equation-oriented modeling software. Based on a previous framework of coupled 1-dimensional mass, momentum, and heat balance equations, this model includes updated reaction kinetics to provide a more detailed representation of biomass components, intermediates, and products. A recently published derivation of thermodynamic properties for the species in this model has allowed the energy balance around the pyrolysis reactor to be rigorously redefined. With these improvements, the optimum pyrolysis temperature for bio-oil production predicted by the model is increased by up to 50°C, bringing it in line with experimental data and increasing the overall agreement. More importantly, the reactor energy balance is strictly enforced. The resulting model can be used for the design and optimization of biomass fast pyrolysis processes, and comparisons with other options for biomass utilization.

• Research Organization: Savannah River Site (SRS), Aiken, SC (United States); RAPID Manufacturing Institute, New York, NY (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Environmental Management (EM); USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Energy Efficiency Office. Advanced Manufacturing Office
• Grant/Contract Number: AC09-08SR22470; EE0007888
• OSTI ID: 1604905
• Alternate ID(s): OSTI ID: 1559345; OSTI ID: 1642079
• Report Number(s): SRNL-STI-2019-00461; TRN: US2104343
• Journal Information: Journal of Advanced Manufacturing and Processing, Vol. 2, Issue 1; ISSN 2637-403X
• Publisher: American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), WileyCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English