Sunarno, et al (2024) Co-pyrolysis of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for liquid fuel production. E3S Web of Conference. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202459309002

A recent study highlights the potential of co-pyrolysis—a thermal decomposition process combining biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More and plastic waste—as a sustainable method for bio-oil production. The research focuses on using oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) biochar and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) as feedstocks, emphasizing the importance of torrefaction pretreatment, feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More ratios, and reaction temperature.

EFB, a byproduct of palm oil production, presents challenges such as high moisture and ashAsh is the non-combustible inorganic residue that remains after organic matter, like wood or biomass, is completely burned. It consists mainly of minerals and is different from biochar, which is produced through incomplete combustion.   Ash Ash is the residue that remains after the complete More content. Pretreatment via torrefaction, a mild heating process, significantly improves the material by reducing ash and increasing energy density. Similarly, HDPE, a type of plastic, contributes a high hydrogen content, improving bio-oil yield and quality while addressing plastic waste issues.

Key findings include:

1. Feedstock Ratios: The optimal EFB-to-HDPE ratio of 55:45 produced the highest bio-oil yield (28.2%) with favorable properties: density of 0.88 g/mL, viscosity of 1.28 cP, and a high heating value of 47.34 MJ/kg.

2. Temperature: Increasing temperatures up to 500°C enhanced bio-oil production, with lower yields at lower temperatures due to incomplete thermal breakdown.

The process not only transforms waste into valuable energy but also mitigates environmental concerns associated with plastic pollution and biomass disposal. While promising, challenges such as acidic byproducts and process optimization remain. Co-pyrolysis represents a step forward in renewable energy development, aligning with global sustainability goals.