Pyrolysis of Dried Black Liquor Solids and Characterization of the Bio-Char and Bio-Oil

Black liquor is a high energy content by-product of paper mill industries which can be processed to generate energy and help in energy sustainability. In this study, experimental analysis were carried out to find various properties of black liquor and characterization of its bio-oil and bio-char obtained through pyrolysis of dried black liquor solids. It was observed from the present study that the temperature has a significant effect on the distribution of products yields. The bio-oil yield was found to be maximum at 500°C temperature with the heating rate of 40°C/min. The bio-oil obtained from Dry black liquor solids (DBLS) has a calorific value of the 29.86 MJ/kg. Chemical composition of the bio-oils was investigated by using FTIR and 1H NMR analysis. Bio-chars obtained as by-product were also analysed by using SEM-EDX, FTIR and XRD. It was found that the bio char obtained were basic in nature. Hence, it may be used as a potential liming agent for reclamation of acidic soil.