Properties of Fast Pyrolysis Liquids: Status of Test Methods

Abstract

A review with 40 refs. Anal. and characterization of liqs. from fast pyrolysis processes is an important area of research. Data on the phys. and chem. properties of the liqs. may give important indications about process parameters, quality, toxicity and stability of the pyrolysis liqs. Based on the growing interest in the utilisation of pyrolysis liqs. as fuel for heat and power prodn. as well as a source for chems., several anal. methods have been applied and modified to meet the special requirements of pyrolysis liqs. This paper will describe new achievements and developments in the phys. and chem. characterization of pyrolysis liqs. Two international working groups, Pyrolysis Network for Europe (PyNE) and the IEA activity on pyrolysis (PyRA) are currently active in reviewing, assessing, harmonizing and developing std. procedures for pyrolysis liqs. anal. These activities will be presented and discussed. The unusual characteristics of pyrolysis liqs. will be noted with respect to their phys. properties and, where relevant, data presented. Most std. test methods for conventional fuel oils may be applied to fast pyrolysis liqs., although there are modifications to some tests and new tests require development in some areas. [on SciFinder (R)]