Pyrolysis of wood is one of the first chemical processes adopted by humans. From the 12th century onwards, it was widely used in Russia to produce pine resin (used for tarring wooden ships and impregnating ropes), a process called tar-distillation.

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It is believed that Sweden pioneered the use of pyrolysis technology on an industrial scale in the 16th century. The Swedes used the technology of impregnating shipboard wood with tanning pine resin from a simple pyrolysis process. The copper vat was filled with softwood logs and sealed so that no air could enter the vat. The vat was heated over an open flame to a temperature of 400°C-500°C, with oily resins accumulating at the bottom and draining through a hole in the bottom. With the development of metallurgy, there was another industry based on the technology of pyrolysis of wood &#; coal burning. When wood was burnt without air access, charcoal was produced.

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What is the history of pyrolysis technology? (4 Key Stages)

Pyrolysis technology has a rich history that dates back to ancient times.

It was primarily used for producing charcoal.

Indigenous cultures in South America utilized pyrolysis by igniting materials and then covering them with soil to reduce oxygen.

This resulted in a high carbon material that could enrich soil nutrients.

This early form of pyrolysis was also used as a heat source for cooking and heating homes.

It was particularly useful in areas without widespread access to electricity.

What is the history of pyrolysis technology? (4 Key Stages)

1. Ancient Times and Indigenous Use

The history of pyrolysis technology dates back to ancient times.

It was primarily used for producing charcoal.

Indigenous cultures in South America utilized pyrolysis by igniting materials and then covering them with soil to reduce oxygen.

This resulted in a high carbon material that could enrich soil nutrients.

This early form of pyrolysis was also used as a heat source for cooking and heating homes.

It was particularly useful in areas without widespread access to electricity.

2. Industrial Era and Slow Pyrolysis

In the industrial era, slow pyrolysis became common in the early s.

It was particularly used in wood industries.

This process involved heating biomass at low rates (5 to 7°C/min) above 400°C in the absence of oxygen.

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The primary goal was to maximize coal production.

Products such as coal, acetic acid, methanol, and ethanol were obtained from wood through this method.

3. 20th Century and Rapid Pyrolysis

The development of rapid or fast pyrolysis technology began to gain momentum in the 20th century.

This method aimed to produce higher yields of liquid products.

These liquid products could be used as fuels or chemical commodities.

Fast pyrolysis involves higher heating rates and shorter residence times compared to slow pyrolysis.

It leads to the production of bio-oil, char, and gases.

4. Modern Era and Expanded Applications

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, pyrolysis technology expanded to include a variety of materials beyond wood.

These materials include agricultural waste, forestry by-products, and even waste tires.

Today, pyrolysis is recognized as a viable method for converting biomass into various useful products.

These products include syngas, liquid bio-oil, char, and wood alcohol.

The technology continues to evolve.

Ongoing research and development aim at improving the quality and economic viability of pyrolysis products.

Particularly, bio-oil for broader commercial use.

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