Microwave-assisted pyrolysis technology for bioenergy recovery: Mechanism, performance, and prospect

• Published in: Fuel (Guildford) Vol. 326; p. 124983
• Main Authors: Su, Guangcan, Ong, Hwai Chyuan, Cheah, Mei Yee, Chen, Wei-Hsin, Lam, Su Shiung, Huang, Yuhan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 15.10.2022
• Subjects: Biofuels; Conventional pyrolysis; Environmental sustainability; Green energy; Microwave-assisted pyrolysis; Green energy; Microwave-assisted pyrolysis; Environmental sustainability; Conventional pyrolysis; Biofuels
• ISSN: 0016-2361; 1873-7153
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fuel.2022.124983

•Conventional pyrolysis is conducive to the formation of bio-oil.•Microwave-assisted pyrolysis is beneficial to improve the composition of bio-oil.•Microwave-assisted pyrolysis favors the improvement of biochar surface properties.•The challenges and prospects of microwave-assisted pyrolysis are analyzed. The emergence of bioenergy provides a solution to the environment and energy crises caused by the indiscriminate use of fossil fuels. Pyrolysis technology has broad application prospects in bioenergy production and waste disposal, providing a solid guarantee for the sustainable development of human beings and the environment. As an endothermic process, pyrolysis relies on external heat as an energy source. The introduction of microwave provides a different energy source for the pyrolysis process and exhibits a different pyrolysis performance due to its unique energy transfer mechanism. Conventional pyrolysis is conducive to the formation of bio-oil, whereas microwave-assisted pyrolysis can improve the composition of bio-oil and the surface properties of biochar. This article focuses on the advantages and limitations of microwave-assisted and conventional pyrolysis modes. Special attention is given to the differences in product distribution and properties and the economic feasibility of the two pyrolysis modes.