Pyrolysis of pearl millet and napier grass hybrid (PMN10TX15): Feasibility, byproducts, and comprehensive characterization

A novel hybrid of pearl millet and napier grass ( Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br. x Pennisetum purpureum Schumach), PMN10TX15, was characterized and investigated as an alternative energy source. Pyrolysis reactions of the PMN10TX15 were carried out in a batch reactor operated at 400-600 °C and atmospheric pressure, aiming to investigate its feasibility for energy conversion and products generation. Initially, the biomass was expected to generate great quantities of bio-oil owing to its high volatile matter (86.94%) and energy content (16.44 MJ/kg). However, not only bio-oil was obtained, but also interesting yields and composition of syngas and biochar. Bio-oil, biochar, and syngas products obtained at 600 °C achieved the highest heating values of 19.9, 28.7, and 4.1 MJ/kg, respectively. Phenols detected in the liquid byproducts could establish an alternative route for its petroleum primarily source, offering potential application to the plastic industry. Furthermore, the pyrolysis at 500 °C yielded the highest mass balance of 94.4% and energy recovery of 82.8%.