Advancements in modeling and simulation of biomass pyrolysis: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Pyrolysis, a thermal decomposition process for converting organic materials into valuable products such as bio-oil, biochar, and syngas, has garnered significant interest due to its potential for sustainable energy production and waste management. This review comprehensively evaluates advancements in modeling and simulation techniques for pyrolysis, emphasizing their application across different scales, from laboratory to industrial settings. The paper examines various modeling approaches, including kinetic models, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and multi-scale frameworks, to elucidate the intricate phenomena of heat and mass transfer, reaction kinetics, and product formation. Recent developments in multi-particle and reactor-scale modeling are highlighted for their role in optimizing reactor designs, improving energy efficiency, and scaling up pyrolysis processes. Additionally, the review explores integrating experimental data and machine learning tools for refining predictions and enhancing operational parameters. This work provides valuable insights into state-of-the-art modeling techniques, offering a roadmap for advancing pyrolysis technology to meet energy and sustainability goals.