An experimental and kinetic modeling study of glycerol pyrolysis. (15th December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fantozzi, F.; Frassoldati, A.; Bartocci, P.; Cinti, G.; Quagliarini, F.; Bidini, G.; Ranzi, E.M.
• Is Part Of: Applied energy. Volume 184(2016)
• Page Start: 68
• Page End: 76
• Publication Date: 2016-12-15
• Subjects: Glycerol -- Pyrolysis -- Skeletal model -- Syngas -- Hydrogen -- Biofuels; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy conservation -- Periodicals; Energy conversion -- Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2016.10.018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-2619

Abstract

Highlights: Glycerol pyrolysis can produce about 44–48%v hydrogen at 750–800 °C. A simplified 452 reactions kinetic model of glycerol pyrolysis has been developed. The model has good agreement with experimental data. Non condensable gas yields can reach 70%. Abstract: Pyrolysis of glycerol, a by-product of the biodiesel industry, is an important potential source of hydrogen. The obtained high calorific value gas can be used either as a fuel for combined heat and power (CHP) generation or as a transportation fuel (for example hydrogen to be used in fuel cells). Optimal process conditions can improve glycerol pyrolysis by increasing gas yield and hydrogen concentration. A detailed kinetic mechanism of glycerol pyrolysis, which involves 137 species and more than 4500 reactions, was drastically simplified and reduced to a new skeletal kinetic scheme of 44 species, involved in 452 reactions. An experimental campaign with a batch pyrolysis reactor was properly designed to further validate the original and the skeletal mechanisms. The comparisons between model predictions and experimental data strongly suggest the presence of a catalytic process promoting steam reforming of methane. High pyrolysis temperatures (750–800 °C) improve process performances and non-condensable gas yields of 70%w can be achieved. Hydrogen mole fraction in pyrolysis gas is about 44–48%v. The skeletal mechanism developed can be easily used in Computational Fluid Dynamic software, reducing the simulation time.