Comparative analysis of different pyrolysis techniques by using kraft lignin : Jämförelse mellan olika pyrolys metoder

Abstract: This thesis presents a comparison analysis between various pyrolysis techniques performed on kraft lignin. Numerous literature studies of pyrolysis techniques performed on kraft lignin are reviewed and analysed where different operation temperatures, catalysts and different heating methods are used to pyrolyze kraft lignin. Based on the collected data from the reviewed literature, calculations are performed to determine energy efficiency of each pyrolysis technique. The energy efficiencies are used to establish a comparison between various pyrolysis techniques. Energy efficiencies of all pyrolysis techniques are determined by using series of equations. Dissimilarities of products composition are investigated between various pyrolysis techniques. Environmental impacts caused by lignin pyrolysis are reviewed and discussed. Uses of products produced from lignin pyrolysis are discussed to highlight the potential of using lignin as an energy resource to produce biooil, biochar and non-condensable gases (NCG). Results show that energy efficiencies differ significantly between various pyrolysis techniques, where microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) shows the highest energy efficiency. Products produced from pyrolysis show a wide range of uses in many industrial applications. Lignin based products have the potential to replace many petroleum-based products which may contribute significantly to decrease pollutants in nature and gas emissions caused by combusting fossil fuels.