Current status of co-pyrolysis of oil shale and biomass

Abstract

The use of biomass (BM) and oil shale (OS) blends for the production of cleaner and improved fuels and chemicals through co-pyrolysis has recently attracted attention. The potential benefits, synergetic effects, interactions and promotion and inhibition effects of co-pyrolysis of BM and OS are reviewed and analyzed in this article based on an overview of various recent studies of co-pyrolysis, including the experimental and operational parameters and the yield and composition of the products. The effects of co-pyrolysis on different feedstock blends are discussed to guide future research on BM and OS copyrolysis. The effects of different pyrolysis parameters that can improve the pyrolysis process and quality of products are also reviewed. These parameters include CO 2 and steam atmospheres, heating rate, reaction temperature and particle size. Overall, in most cases reviewed, co-pyrolysis can enhance the yields of bio-oils, producer gas and chars as well as improve their properties while reducing the environmental effects of fossil fuels.