What Is Biomass Carbonization?

Biomass carbonization technology involves the pyrolytic carbonization of biomass feedstocks under oxygen-deficient or anaerobic conditions to produce biochar. This process effectively utilises agricultural and forestry residues alongside other biomass resources. Biochar possesses extensive applications, including soil remediation, environmental pollution restoration, wastewater and exhaust gas purification, and carbon sequestration. With the global pursuit of sustainable development and carbon neutrality objectives, the research and application of biomass carbonization technology are gaining increasing prominence. This process necessitates the use of biomass carbonization furnaces.

Biomass Carbonization Furnace

Principles of Biomass Carbonization Technology

Biomass carbonization technology involves heating biomass under oxygen-depleted conditions to decompose it, thereby producing biomass charcoal and other by-products. Under oxygen-depleted and anaerobic conditions, heating induces thorough pyrolysis reactions within the biomass. This method enables the simultaneous production of biomass charcoal alongside combustible gases and liquid products, facilitating efficient utilisation of biomass resources.

Biomass Carbonization Steps and Functions

1. Pre-treatment: To enhance reaction efficiency and ensure raw material uniformity, biomass undergoes pre-treatment steps including crushing, drying, and screening.
2. Heating and Temperature Rise: Biomass is conveyed into the carbonization furnace and rapidly heated under oxygen-depleted or anaerobic conditions. As furnace temperatures gradually increase, moisture within the biomass volatilises.
3. Pyrolysis Reaction: When pyrolysis temperatures reach 300–600°C, biomass undergoes pyrolysis. Complex organic molecules progressively decompose into smaller fragments while releasing volatile substances—including gases (carbon monoxide, methane, hydrogen), liquids (wood vinegar, tar), and non-volatile solid residues—biomass charcoal.
4. Secondary Cracking and Condensation: Some volatile products undergo further secondary cracking or condensation reactions at elevated temperatures. This reaction enhances the quality of the biomass charcoal while reducing emissions of harmful gases.
5. Cooling and Collection: Following carbonization, the biomass charcoal requires cooling treatment before collection and storage. The generated gases can be recovered for use as fuel, while liquid products may be processed and applied according to specific requirements.

Pyrolysis Process and Products

The pyrolysis process comprises three stages: drying, pyrolysis, and carbonization. Biomass charcoal constitutes the primary solid product, while liquids and gases are by-products.

• Drying Stage: Temperatures typically remain below 150°C. Moisture within the biomass gradually evaporates during this phase.
• Pyrolysis Stage: Operating within a 150–300°C temperature range, cellulose and hemicellulose commence decomposition. Small-molecule volatiles are produced.
• Carbonization Stage: Temperature rises to 300–600°C. Large-molecule organic compounds within the biomass undergo further cracking. Solid biochar is formed, accompanied by minor gas and liquid outputs.

Should you wish to learn more about biomass carbonization technology, we invite you to follow our website. As manufacturers of biomass carbonization furnaces, we welcome your enquiries.

The URL for this article is: https://www.victorsmachine.com/company-blog/what-is-biomass-carbonization/ Please credit the source when reposting. Thank you.