Table 5 The three main thermo-chemical process of biomass
From: Microwave pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass––a contribution to power Africa
Biomass conversion process | Air supply | Temperature range (°C) | Products |
|---|---|---|---|
Gasification | Less than stoichiometric oxygen required | 800–1000 | Syngas; char. (The syngas produced through gasification is predominately carbon monoxide, hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide). |
Combustion | In excess | 800–1200 | Flue gas and ash. (Emissions of dioxins, furans). |
Pyrolysis | Absent of oxygen | 350–600 | Bio-oil, syngas, char. (The gases and the bio-oil are from the volatile fraction of biomass, while the char is mostly the fixed carbon component). |