Generating deoxygenated pyrolysis vapors

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to novel biomass pyrolysis processes and systems that decrease entrainment of char and other contaminants with the pyrolysis vapors.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a non-provisional application which claims benefit under 35 USC §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 699,000 filed Sep. 10, 2012, entitled “Generating Deoxygenated Pyrolysis Vapors,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]None.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]This invention relates to pyrolysis of organic matter into useful chemical or fuel products.BACKGROUND[0004]The U.S. Renewable Fuel Standards (RFS) mandate will require higher volumes of advanced biofuels to be produced in the near future. One method being developed to meet this mandate is the fast pyrolysis of biomass. Conventional biomass fast pyrolysis requires rapid heating of biomass in the absence of oxygen. Products include a solid carbonaceous char that contains the vast quantities of metals (e.g. Na, K, Mg) present in the biomass feedstock. The products also include a hig...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a process for upgrading a gas / liquid mixture using a catalyst. The process aims to reduce the amount of metal in the gas / liquid mixture and prevent char from leaving the reactor. This increases the activity of the catalyst and reduces the time needed for the gas / liquid mixture to produce secondary products. The technical effects of this process are improved efficiency and selectivity for upgrading gas / liquid mixtures.

Problems solved by technology

The products also include a highly oxygenated pyrolysis oil (or pyoil) that is not practical for upgrading to a transportation fuel because of thermal stability issues associated with highly reactive oxygenated components.

Unfortunately, when employing this process, the catalysts tend to rapidly deactivate when contacted by char fines composed of carbon and metals.

Additionally, the char fines are often carried out of the pyrolyzer by entrainment with the pyrolysis vapor, resulting in a liquid product containing solids and metals that can negatively impact downstream processes.

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