Integration of decentralized torrefaction with centralized catalytic pyrolysis to produce green aromatics from coffee grounds

Bioresour Technol. 2016 Feb:201:287-92. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2015.11.065. Epub 2015 Nov 28.

Abstract

The aim of this work was to integrate decentralized torrefaction with centralized catalytic pyrolysis to convert coffee grounds into the green aromatic precursors of terephthalic acid, namely benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX). An economic analysis of this bioproduct system was conducted to examine BTEX yields, biomass costs and their sensitivities. Model predictions were verified experimentally using pyrolysis GC/MS to quantify BTEX yields for raw and torrefied biomass. The production cost was minimized when the torrefier temperature and residence time were 239°C and 34min, respectively. This optimization study found conditions that justify torrefaction as a pretreatment for making BTEX, provided that starting feedstock costs are below $58 per tonne.

Keywords: Aromatics; Biomass; Catalysis; Pyrolysis; Torrefaction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Benzene / analysis
  • Benzene Derivatives / analysis
  • Biomass
  • Biotechnology / economics
  • Biotechnology / methods*
  • Catalysis
  • Coffee / chemistry*
  • Costs and Cost Analysis
  • Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Temperature*
  • Time Factors
  • Toluene / analysis
  • Volatile Organic Compounds / analysis*
  • Xylenes / analysis

Substances

  • Benzene Derivatives
  • Coffee
  • Volatile Organic Compounds
  • Xylenes
  • Toluene
  • Benzene
  • ethylbenzene