Pyrolysis of Arundo donax lignocellulosic wastes in a fixed bed reactor under CO2 atmosphere

The objective of this study was to investigate the pyrolysis of Arundo donax in a fixed bed reactor under CO2 atmosphere. Pyrolysis experimental include the effect of temperature (540, 650 and 750 °C) on the yield of pyrolysis products. After pyrolysis, the proximate and ultimate analysis of bio-oil properties was investigated. The results showed that the maximum yield of bio-oil (33.7%) was obtained at a temperature of 650 °C. By increasing the temperature from 540 to 650 °C, the yield of bio-oil increases and the amount of bio-char decreases. Regarding the effect of temperature increase on the amount of gas, the results show that from 540 to 650 °C, the amount of gas increases and then decreases. The results of gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed that the obtained acidic liquid is dark in color with a combination of chemical compounds including acids, alcohols, aldehydes, furfurals, furans, phenols and some aromatic substances. The presence of these compounds indicates that the bio-oil obtained could potentially be used as fuel. Also, the experimental formula of bio-oil obtained was CH1.44O0.54N0.003 with a calorific value of 27.64 MJ/kg.