Production and feasibility characterization of bio-oil from jojoba seed-based biomass through solar thermal energy pyrolysis process

The current investigation was done on solar thermochemical pyrolysis technique to convert non-edible jojoba seed-based biomass to bio-oil. The produced bio-oil was characterized using TG (thermogravimetric), proximate and ultimate analysis, GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy), and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) techniques, and their viability as fuel candidates were assessed. Based on the analysis, the highest bio-oil output of 22% was achieved with a reactor temperature of 200-350 degrees C, and a 48% yield of biochar was found. The biomass pyrolytic zone was found to be between 200 and 520 degrees C. The bio-oil final chemical composition indicated its high percentage of carbon (56.8%) and hydrogen (7.6%). The bio-oils that reduced oxygen concentration favour a high heating value. The bio-oils were having a higher H/C ratio (1.85) and lower O/C ratio (0.38), implying that they can be used as a petroleum fuel in engine applications. The bio-oil has carbon molecules ranging from C-6 to C-23, which might be a blend of diesel and gasoline fuels. Finally, the study found that produced bio-oil exhibits various favourable circumstances for use as a fuel candidate in engine applications.