Kinetic Study of Palm Kernel Shell Thermal Decomposition

What is it about?

* The study investigated the thermal decomposition of palm kernel shells (PKS) using different methods. * Model-fitting and model-free methods were compared to analyze the decomposition of PKS. * The apparent activation energy increased with conversion, indicating the complexity of the decomposition process. * The Sestak-Berggren model was found to be a better fit for PKS pyrolysis compared to the reaction order model. * Different components of PKS, such as moisture, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin, decomposed simultaneously. * The decomposition of lignin occurred at a slower rate compared to hemicellulose and cellulose. * Various methods, including KAS, FWO, and Friedman, were used to study the pyrolytic kinetics of PKS. * Model-free methods were effective in predicting the activation energies of lignocellulosic biomass components. * The three independent-parallel-reaction model provided a good fit to the experimental data.

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Photo by Benjamin Zanatta on Unsplash

Photo by Benjamin Zanatta on Unsplash

Why is it important?

* The study focuses on the thermal decomposition of palm kernel shells (PKS), which is a renewable and sustainable biomass resource. * The comparison of model-free and model-fitting methods for PKS decomposition provides insights into the most accurate approach for analyzing the process. * The evaluation of the global single reaction mechanism using reaction order and Sestak-Berggren models contributes to understanding the pyrolysis mechanism of PKS. * The study examines the simultaneous decomposition of different components of PKS, including moisture, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin, providing a comprehensive understanding of the process. * The use of various kinetic analysis methods, such as KAS, FWO, and Friedman, enhances the understanding of the pyrolytic kinetics of PKS. * The effectiveness of model-free methods in predicting the activation energies of lignocellulosic biomass components has practical implications for biomass conversion processes. * The findings of the study contribute to the broader field of biomass utilization and can inform the development of efficient and sustainable energy conversion technologies.