Optimization of Pyrolysis Yields of Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) and Application of Biochar Product for the Improvement of Maize Growth.

Pyrolysis is the most commonly employed technology to convert widely available biomaβ materials into useful products like biofuels. In the present study, pyrolysis of paper mulberry (Brouβonetia papyrifera) was performed in order to observe the effect of temperature and particle size on product distribution and yield, and application of biochar product to improve growth and yield of maize. The experiments were performed in a fixed-bed reactor using three pyrolysis temperatures (350°C, 450°C, 550°C) and three particle sizes (1 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm) of B. papyrifera. The pyrolysis products were collected within three different groups as gaseous products, liquids and solid biochar. The results showed that the maximum biochar product was obtained at 350°C and 3 mm particle size while the highest bio-oil yield was attained at 450°C and 2 mm particle size. However, the optimum gas yield was achieved at 550°C and 1 mm particle size. A pot experiment was conducted to determine the effect of produced biochar on maize plant emergence, growth and yield. The results showed a substantial increase in plant height, shoot dry weight and maize yield compared to untreated control. These findings revealed that the production of biofuels can be improved by optimizing operating conditions and biochar produced during pyrolysis could be used as soil amendment for improving growth and yield of maize. © 2014 Friends Science Publishers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]