OPTIMIZATION OF PYROLYSIS OF OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCHES

In this study, pyrolysis of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) was investigated using a quartz fluidized-fixed bed reactor. The effects of various pyrolysis temperatures, particle sizes and heating rates on the yields of the products were investigated. The temperature of pyrolysis and heating rate were varied in the range of 300 degrees C-700 degrees C and 10 degrees C-100 degrees C min(-1), respectively. The particle size was varied in the range of <90, 91-106, 107-125 and 126-250 mu m. The products obtained from pyrolysis of EFB were bio-oil, char and gas. Under the experimental conditions, the maximum bio-oil yield was 42% obtained at 500 degrees C, with a heating rate of 100 degrees C min(-1) and a particle size of 91-106 mu m. The maximum yield of char was 42%, obtained at a pyrolysis temperature of 300 degrees C, heating rate of 30 degrees C min(-1) and particle size of 91-106 pin. Meanwhile, the optimum yield of gas was 46%, which could be achieved at a pyrolysis temperature of 700 degrees C, heating rate of 30 degrees C min(-1) and particle size of 107-125 mu m.