The potential applications of the bio-char derived from pyrolysis of an agro-industrial waste. Effects of temperature and acid-pretreatment

P. R. BONELLI; G. V. NUNELL; M. E. FERNANDEZ; E. L. BUONOMO; A. L. CUKIERMAN

ENERGY SOURCES PART A-RECOVERY UTILIZATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

TAYLOR & FRANCIS INC

Año: 2012 vol. 34 p. 746 - 755

1556-7036

The bio-char arising from slow pyrolysis of raw agricultural wastes from sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) at two different temperatures (600 °C and 800 °C) is characterized. According to international standards, the bio-char derived at both temperatures has potential as solid bio-fuel for domestic use, whereas only the bio-char produced at 800 ºC might be employed for industrial targets. Textural characterization also points to the potential use of the latter as inexpensive rough adsorbent or soil amender. Besides, acid-pretreatment of the wastes subjected to pyrolysis at 600 ºC promotes an enhanced yield of the bio-char with a well-developed porous structure. Its effectiveness in removing synthetic melanoidin from a dilute solution, as model of molasses wastewater from the sugar industry and related factories generating environmental pollution, is comparable to that of a commercial activated carbon used for comparison.