Co-Pyrolysis of Bamboo and Rice Straw Biomass with Polyethylene Plastic: Characterization, Kinetic Evaluation, and...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Renewable Energy

Background:

• Lignocellulosic biomass (bamboo, rice straw) and polyethylene (plastic) are abundant resources.
• Co-pyrolysis offers a potential route for waste valorization and energy recovery.
• Understanding the synergistic effects in blended feedstock is crucial for optimizing pyrolysis processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the co-pyrolysis behavior of bamboo, rice straw, and polyethylene blends.
• To analyze the thermal decomposition kinetics and synergistic interactions.
• To evaluate the potential for enhanced energy recovery.

Main Methods:

• X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystallinity analysis.
• Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) for surface and elemental characterization.
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) at various heating rates (5–20 °C/min) up to 700 °C.
• Friedman's isoconversional method for kinetic analysis.
• Evaluation of transient interaction effects via weight loss deviation.

Main Results:

• High crystallinity observed in bamboo-rice straw blends (B25R75).
• Polyethylene samples contained ZrP2O7 and lazurite phases due to additives.
• Co-pyrolysis blends showed decreased activation energy compared to individual components.
• Significant synergistic behavior was detected in specific binary and ternary blends.
• Enhanced thermal decomposition efficiency was observed.

Conclusions:

• Co-pyrolysis of bamboo and rice straw with polyethylene is a viable process.
• Synergistic interactions in blends improve thermal decomposition and energy recovery.
• This approach offers a promising pathway for sustainable waste management and energy production.