Determination of Water Content in Pyrolysis Oil by Distillation (CAT#: STEM-PPA-0123-YJL)

Introduction

Pyrolysis oil is a dark brown organic liquid that mainly consists of a complex mixture of highly oxygenated compounds and water. Its composition depends on the biomass feedstock and the parameters during the pyrolysis process e.g. temperature, heating rate, vapor residence time, etc. Pyrolysis oil has several potential applications. It can be used as a substitute for fuel oil in static applications to generate heat and/or electricity, as an additive in transport fuels or as a source of value-added chemicals. To determine the most appropriate application, a thorough characterization of the pyrolysis oil is absolutely necessary.

A substantial part of pyrolysis oil frequently consists of water. The water content influences the calorific value and the flow properties (viscosity) of the pyrolysis oil, both important parameters when is aimed at fuel applications.