Knowra Pyrolysis Pyrolysis Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of material at elevated temperatures, usually without oxygen. It produces gases, condensable vapors, and a solid residue whose proportions depend on the feedstock and conditions.
Thermal decomposition : The breakdown of a substance into simpler products through heat. Pyrolysis is a specific form of decomposition driven by heat.
Biomass pyrolysis : The thermal decomposition of plant-derived material under oxygen-limited conditions. It produces biochar, condensable liquids, and combustible gases from biomass.
Combustion : A rapid chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizer that releases heat, usually producing oxides. Unlike pyrolysis, combustion uses oxygen as a reactant.
Biomass : Renewable organic material derived from plants, animals, and their residues. Biomass is a major feedstock for pyrolysis and biochar production.
Carbon sequestration : The capture and long-term storage of carbon dioxide or carbon in other reservoirs. Stable biochar can retain some biomass carbon in soils for extended periods.
Pyrolysis oil : A liquid mixture of organic compounds condensed from vapors produced during biomass pyrolysis. Rapidly cooling pyrolysis vapors can recover this liquid product.
Plastic pyrolysis : The thermal decomposition of plastics into gases, oils, waxes, and solid residues. It can turn some plastic waste into hydrocarbon-rich feedstocks.
Gasification : The conversion of carbonaceous materials into fuel gas using limited oxygen, steam, or both. Gasification adds reactive agents to convert more solid carbon into gas.
Cellulose : A structural polysaccharide made of glucose chains and the main component of plant cell walls. Its decomposition contributes substantially to vapors and gases in biomass pyrolysis.
Life-cycle assessment : A method for evaluating the environmental impacts of a product or process across its life cycle. It tests whether pyrolysis delivers net climate and environmental benefits.
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