A Fundamental Study of the Reaction and Diffusion of Poly-Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Hierarchical Pore Structure Zeolites

摘要

Thermochemical conversion of biomass via gasification and pyrolysis has attracted significant scientific attention as a means for converting biomass and waste products to useful energy and chemical feedstocks. A major factor deterring large-scale commercialization of this technology is the presence of high molecular-weight poly-aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), also known as tars, in producer streams. Tars deactivate catalysts, cause blockages in transfer lines, and damage downstream units such as compressors, turbines, and fuel cells [1]. Additionally, PAHs are typically carcinogenic in nature. A process to convert PAHs into potentially useful products would be very desirable.