Investigating the Influence of Desulfurization Fly Ash on the Upgrading of Biomass-Derived Pyrolysis Gas

Abstract

The catalytic role of desulfurization fly ash (DFA) was explored as a means to upgrade biomass-derived pyrolysis gas, with a focus on integrating waste valorization and renewable energy production. Soybean straw (SS) was pyrolyzed with DFA to assess the influence on pyrolytic product distribution. The results indicate that DFA notably influenced the yield and quality of pyrolysis gas, with optimal yields achieved at specific DFA concentrations. The study also demonstrated that DFA enhanced the production of methane (CH₄) and hydrogen (H₂) while reducing carbon monoxide (CO), thereby improving the lower heating value of pyrolysis gas. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to characterize the char, showing increased surface area and pore volume due to DFA addition. The study concluded that DFA is an effective catalyst in biomass gasification, providing valuable insights into its catalytic mechanisms and potential for industrial application.