PRODUCTS FROM FLASH PYROLYSIS OF A TURKISH LIGNITE IN A FREE-FALL REACTOR UNDER VACUUM

ABSTRACT

Flash pyrolysis of a Turkish lignite under vacuum in a free-fall reactor was examined at a temperature range of 400 - 800 °C. Gaseous products were analysed with an on-line GC equipped with a manuel injection valve. Solvent fractionation was applied to the liquid product to separate preasphaltenes, asphaltenes and oils fractions. Two particle distributions of the lignite were used: ?0.315+0.2 mm and ?0.1 mm. The liquid yield increased with temperature up to 650 °C and, thereafter decreased for the larger particles. The maximum liquid yield, excluding pyroltic water, was found to be 8 % wt (dal) at 650 °C. In the case of the smaller particles the liquid yield increased steadily with temperature and the yield of liquid, excluding pyrolytic water, was 5.9 % wt (da) at 850 °C. The gaseous product yield also increased with temperature for both size fractions, and CO and CO₂ in the gaseous products were present in large amounts.