Production and Characterization of Bio-oil Derived from Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) using Fast Pyrolysis

Abstract

This study uses GC-MS and FTIR analyses to investigate the chemical composition of bio-oil derived from the pyrolysis of Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) at 500°C. The heating rate was 50-100°C/min, and the time residual was around 1 min. The GC-MS results showed a lot of different compounds. The leading group was phenol derivatives, but phenols, esters, acids, and other oxygenated organic compounds were also found. The presence of lighter and heavier organic molecules, ranging from C1 to C44, further emphasizes the bio-oil's complex nature. FTIR analysis provided additional insights into the functional groups present in the bio-oil, revealing strong O–H stretching vibrations indicative of phenols and alcohols, C–H stretching and bending vibrations corresponding to alkanes, C=C stretching vibrations from conjugated alkenes, and N–O stretching vibrations suggesting nitro compounds. Carbonyl-containing groups such as alcohols, carboxylic acids, ethers, and esters were also detected. There were 3 main products: bio-oil 50- 70 %, biochar 15-25 %, and syngas 10-20 %. The high oxygen content and diverse functional groups in the bio-oil indicate its potential for use in various industrial applications, including fuel production and chemical synthesis. However, the presence of oxygenated compounds suggests that further refining may be necessary to enhance its properties for use as a biofuel. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the bio-oils composition and potential applications.