Optimization of biooil yield in auger pyrolysis reactor

In this study, bio-oil optimization was investigated using pine sawdust and an auger pyrolysis reactor. Factors affecting pyrolysis, such as feed rate, auger rate, reactor temperature, and cooling water temperature, were used as variables. The system was optimized using the Response Surface Method (RSM) and Central Composite Design (CCD) technique. Since the alkali and alkaline earth metal salts in the structure of pine sawdust reduce the bio-oil yield, a 0.3% phosphoric acid pre-treatment was applied to the pine sawdust before the pyrolysis studies. The moisture content of the pine sawdust used in the studies was maintained at 10%. In the pyrolysis experiments, the optimum conditions were found to be a feed rate of 13.5 rpm, an auger rate of 33 rpm, a temperature difference of 62.5 ℃, and a cooling water temperature of 38.63 ℃. It was determined that the maximum bio-oil yield at these points would be 56%. In validation experiments conducted under the recommended conditions, the bio-oil yield was found to be 54%. This efficiency was found to be 89.4% compatible with the theoretically suggested experimental point.