Optimization of microwave-assisted pyrolysis parameters for sugarcane bagasse biochar using response surface methodology

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Abstract
Microwave-assisted pyrolysis is an efficient biomass conversion technology that enables uniform and rapid heating for biochar production. In this study, a microwave-assisted pyrolysis system was developed to produce bagasse biochar and examine the effects of pyrolysis temperature and CO2 flow rate on its surface morphology and structural characteristics. Based on extensive experimental data, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to establish empirical correlations among microwave energy input, material structural evolution, and the specific surface area and mesopore ratio of biochar. The results revealed that potassium hydroxide (KOH) addition exerted the most influence on the specific surface area, mesopore ratio, and yield of carbon, followed by CO2 flow rate and pyrolysis temperature. Regression models were subsequently constructed to predict these parameters. Under optimal conditions (pyrolysis temperature: 802.77 °C, KOH addition: 64.5 g, and CO2 flow rate: 67.81 cm3/min), the specific surface area of carbon reached a maximum value of 1,156.37 m3/g. Under another set of conditions (pyrolysis temperature: 801.53 °C, KOH addition: 70.23 g, and CO2 flow rate: 71.54 cm3/min), the mesopore ratio of carbon was minimized to 39.29%. These findings provide valuable guidance for the optimization of microwave-assisted synthesis of coconut-shell biochar in subsequent research.

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