Application of response surface methodology for the modelling and optimisation of bio-oil yield via intermediate pyrolysis process of sugarcane bagasse

The search for renewable resources has grown globally as a result of the harmful effects of fossil fuel use on the environment, such as global warming and acid rain. Biomass fuels do not contribute to the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This study utilised response surface methodology for the optimisation of pyrolysis process parameters (temperature, heating rate, reaction time, nitrogen flow rate, and particle size) at five levels of experimental runs to enhance bio-oil production from the intermediate pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse. The bio-oil yield increased continuously with an increase in T (320-520 degrees C) and H (7.5-12.5 degrees C/min) due to complete pyrolysis, while a decrease in bio-oil was noticed at a T (520-720 degrees C) and H (22.5-27.5 degrees C/min) due to secondary cracking such as thermal cracking, repolymerisation and recondensation that might enhance the yield of NCG and biochar. The optimum bio-oil yield (46.7 wt%) was achieved at a temperature, reaction time, heating rate, nitrogen flow rate, and particle size of 493.7 degrees C, 15.5 min, 24.5 degrees C/min, 225 cm(3)/min, and 0.1 mm, respectively. Results showed that the predicted data closely correlated with the experimental data (p < 0.05, R-2 = 0.9891). Hence, the model is suitable and can accurately predict the experimental data. The presence of alkene, alcohol, and ester makes the bio-oil applicable for energy generation to power heavy equipment, ships, compressor, and boilers. Likewise, the presence of by-products such as oleic acids, methyl ester, 9,17-octadecdienal, and 9,12-octadecadienoyl chloride makes it suitable as fuel for high-speed diesel engines, powering heavy machines, vehicle locomotion, marine equipment, mining types of machinery, and manufacturing industries.