Flash pyrolysis of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) for production of liquid fuels

Flash pyrolysis experiments of linseed (Linum usitatissinum L.) were performed in a tubular transport reactor at atmospheric pressure under nitrogen atmosphere. The effects of pyrolysis temperature and particle size on the yields of products were investigated with the sweep gas flow rate of 100 cm(3) min(-1). The temperature of pyrolysis and particle size were varied in the ranges 400-700 degrees C and 0.6 mm < D-p < 1.25 mm, 1.25 mm < D-P < 1.8 mm, D-p > 1.8 mm, respectively. The maximum oil yield of 68.8% was obtained at a pyrolysis temperature of 550 degrees C, and the particle size of D-p > 1.8 mm. The char and liquid product were analyzed to determine their elemental composition and calorific value. In particular, the chemical composition of the oil was investigated using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques (H-1 NMR, IR, column chromatography and GC). The chemical characterization has shown that the oil obtained from linseed can be used as a renewable fuel and chemical feedstock. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.