In this paper we present an overview of our recent results on the catalytic pyrolysis of biomass and the upgrading of bio-oil by the use of various acidic microporous zeolites (USY, Beta, ZSM-5, Silicalite), mesoporous aluminosilicates (MCM-41, SBA-15, MSU-S, MCF) and hybrid ZSM-5 zeolites with intra-crystal mesoporosity, as well as basic catalysts (MgO and mixed oxides derived from Layered Double Hydroxides). Acidic catalysts usually lead to increased production of water and coke and decreased yield of the organic fraction of bio-oil. On the other hand, they promote de-oxygenation and aromatization reactions, thus leading to less oxygenated compounds in the bio-oil and more aromatic hydrocarbons. The basic materials induce different effects on product yields and selectivity of bio-oil components mainly via ketonization and condensation reactions. Due to the presence of lignin in significant portion in the biomass, some acidic and basic catalysts favor the formation of high added value phenols.

Catalytic pyrolysis of biomass with acidic and basic materials:   Production of upgraded bio-oil as source of fuels and chemicals

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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