Application of Swirl Intensification Technology in Thermochemical Conversion of Biomass to High-Value Bio-Oil: A Review

For decades, fossil fuels have been the mainstay of the global economy. However, their limitations, price volatility, and growing environmental concerns necessitate the search for and promotion of more affordable, cleaner, and sustainable alternatives. Among these, biomass emerges as a unique and abundant natural, organic, and renewable source for fuel and chemical production. Various conversion technologies can transform biomass into energy, valuable products, or chemical intermediates. However, conventional conversion methods and reactors fall short in addressing the increasing demands for energy efficiency and environmental conservation, hindered by mass and heat transfer limitations. To enhance reaction efficiency, an array of reinforcement strategies-spanning physical, chemical, and biological methods—have been employed. Notably, swirl intensification (SI) technology, a physical intensification approach, has demonstrated remarkable outcomes across various fields. This paper presents a research map of SI’s application in biomass thermochemical conversion, expanding the understanding and application scope of swirl reactors. It encapsulates the current state of biomass thermochemical conversion technologies and research directions. The paper provides in-depth instances of SI’s implementation and its associated reactors within this sector. It evaluates the advantages and limitations of SI, alongside its prospective applications in biomass thermochemical conversion. This paper aims to advance the sustainable development of biomass energy and environmentally friendly conversion technologies.