Investigation of pyrolysis kinetics and thermal behavior of Invasive Reed Canary (Phalaris arundinacea) for bioenergy potential

Abstract

The present study investigates the pyrolysis kinetic and thermal behavior of Invasive Reed Canary (Phalaris arundinacea) and evaluate the potential of the biomass as a bioenergy feedstock. The biomass sample was collected from wild areas of Ontario, Canada. Thermal degradation analysis were conducted by exposing the dried and powdered biomass to four heating rates (10, 20, 30 and 40 K min-1) using a Thermogravimetric Analyzer in an inert environment. Thermal data was utilized to explain the reaction chemistry using iso-conversional models of Kissenger-Akahira-Sunose (KSA), Starink and Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO). Evaluation of the kinetic parameters such as the activation energy and the pre-exponential factor illustrates the promising bioenergy potential of the biomass. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Gas chromatography techniques indicate existence of valuable pyrolysis products such as aliphatic hydrocarbons. Low cost in addition to the abundance of the biomass may facilitates the consumption of the biomass for bioenergy application in cost efficient and environmental friendly manners.