Pyrolysis of cellulose under catalysis of SAPO-34, ZSM-5, and Y zeolite via the Py-GC/MS method

Bio-oil from pyrolysis of biomass is an important renewable source for liquid fuel and/or for chemicals. However, the application of bio-oil was severely restricted due to its high viscosity, acidity, and low heating value. Hence, it is necessary to upgrade the bio-oil for deoxygenation or for chemicals by catalytic reactions. In this paper, the catalytic behaviors of SAPO-34, ZSM-5, and Y zeolite on pyrolysis of cellulose were investigated via pyrolyzer combined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometer (Py-GC/MS) method in Py-mode. The results showed that ZSM-5 and Y zeolite could promote the conversions of oxygen-containing components to gases, water, aromatics, and phenols. Comparatively, more gas and water were generated under the catalysis of Y zeolite at lower temperatures, while at temperatures above 700°C, the effect of ZSM-5 became more distinct; aromatics were more generated under the catalysis of ZSM-5, while Y zeolite exerted a more distinct role in promoting the formation of phenols. The effect of SAPO-34 caused more water and furfural derivatives, less aromatics and phenols, and exerted a weak influence on gases.