Robert G. Graham

Applications of Rapid Thermal Processing of Biomass

Rapid Thermal Processing (RTP) is a generic technology which employs one of several proprietary reactor configurations to convert carbonaceous feedstocks to high yields of chemical and liquid fuel products. The common denominator of each system is the ability to rapidly transfer heat with precise control of short contact times. The process consists of thermal or thermocatalytic refining of biomass, and is somewhat analogous to the refining of petroleum materials. Nevertheless, the chemical and fuel products are unique and not similar to petroleum-derived products. Furthermore, RTP is not to be confused with conventional pyrolysis, from which it differs fundamentally with respect to product yield and quality, and process conditions and chemistry. Short-term applications include the production of specialty chemicals, fuel oil substitutes and engine fuels for both diesel and turbine engine applications. Research in support of these applications is in progress and is reviewed in the paper. In particular, the results of successful bio-oil combustion performance testing is detailed. The status of RTP hardware, including a 25 tonne/day commercial plant, is also reviewed.