Analysis of Tar by Catalytic Pyrolysis of Waste Jute

Catalytic pyrolysis involves the production of upgraded liquids in a single step within short residence times. In the present study the catalytic pyrolysis of jute has been investigated using a cylindrical semi-batch pyrolyzer made of stainless steel under both isothermal condition and within the temperature range of 400⁰C to 900⁰C in an inert N2 atmosphere. Aluminium Oxide (Al₂O₃) was used as the catalyst. Alumina was pre-calcined at 120ºC for 2 hr in muffle furnace before being used in the reactor. Catalyst and jute were mixed directly in the ratio of 1:10. The use of Al₂O₃ catalyst led to higher tar yield and phenolic compounds in the liquid product. The chemical composition of the pyro – oil was analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy to identify the basic compositional groups and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry to quantify the components. The energy yield of the pyro-oil has been calculated.