TGA Torrefaction Kinetics of Cedar Wood

Abstract

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was performed at 5, 10, 20 and 30°C min–1 heating rates on cedar wood to determine its weight-loss kinetics. The weight percentage of C in the torrefied samples increased significantly with increase in torrefaction temperature while that of O and H decreased. There was a slight increase in the nitrogen content as the torrefaction temperature increased. Four weight-loss phases were identified on the TGA curve. Percentage weight loss of cedar wood as well as higher heating value HHV increased with increase in temperature. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy FT-IR analysis indicated the elimination of water and evolution of gases such as CO and CO2. The Friedman's method was used to obtain kinetic parameters. A plot of ln(dα/dt) versus 1/Tshowed a linear relationship with the slope, describing the activation energy values.