Bio-oil is a renewable fuel whose raw material is biomass, that is, substances of organic origin (vegetable, animal, etc.). Its manufacture consists of a series of physicochemical transformations, which originate a black colored and very viscous liquid, which can be used in electricity generation, domestic heating, organic fertilizers, fuel additives and as fuels (after being refined).
Bio-oil is obtained through pyrolysis. This process is characterized by the burning and thermal degradation of biomass (sawdust, bagasse sugarcane, agricultural residues, rice husks, etc.) at temperatures of 500 °C, in the total absence of oxygen. The result gives rise to coal, aerosols, vapors and pyroligneous acid (which can undergo yet another transformation to produce methanol).
After the condensation of these vapors, and under these temperature conditions, the process is completed in a few minutes, and around 70% of the biomass turns into a black oil, called bio-oil. This product has physicochemical properties similar to diesel and can be used in the production of various objects that have oil as a raw material. Experts from the US Department of Agriculture and Energy say that the use of bio-oil can reduce that country's annual oil consumption by up to 30%.
Therefore, with the real possibility of oil reserves running out in a few decades, there is a need to develop new alternatives for the manufacture of fuels. Thus, bio-oil, along with other renewable sources, becomes an effective and less aggressive option for the environment. environment, as this fuel, during combustion, releases 50% less polluting gases compared to the original fossil.
By Wagner de Cerqueira and Francisco
Graduated in Geography
Brazil School Team
Biofuels - Fuels - geography - Brazil School
