Development and Testing of a Novel Pilot-Scale Solar Pyrolysis Reactor

Abstract

Thermochemical conversion methods such as gasification and pyrolysis have shown promise in harnessing solar energy. The feedstock in the reactor is heated using biomass or an electric run heater in the traditional pyrolysis method. This eventually leads to excessive energy use and the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG). Solar-assisted pyrolysis would be one of the solutions to the pyrolytic reactor’s heating problem. This study created and tested a unique pyrolysis system that used solar energy for pre-heating. Three Fresnel lenses were tested to determine the viability of using solar energy into a pyrolysis system. The innovative system’s test results were compared to those of the standard pyrolysis system. In comparison to the standard pyrolysis system, the solar-assisted system has lower fuel costs, energy usage, and GHG output. Under the current energy crisis, this technique as a supplement to fossil fuels requires increased attention.