Pyrolysis and Extraction of Bark in a Biorefineries Context: A Critical Review

Umut Şen (), Bruno Esteves and Helena Pereira
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Umut Şen: Centro de Estudos Florestais, Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisbon, Portugal
Bruno Esteves: CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Helena Pereira: Centro de Estudos Florestais, Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Tapada da Ajuda, 1349-017 Lisbon, Portugal

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 13, 1-23

Abstract: Bark-based biorefineries are estimated to become a trending topic in the coming years, particularly with their adsorbent applications and antioxidant production. While the potential benefits of bark-based biorefineries are well-recognized, it is not known how to develop a bark-based biorefinery considering different unit operations and the potential end products. The characterization and screening of different barks for chemical composition is the initial step in biorefinery development, along with the selection of the relevant conversion processes. This state-of-the-art review provides background knowledge on the pyrolysis and extraction studies of bark as the key conversion operations. The results of recent (2010–2022) bark pyrolysis and extraction studies were critically analyzed for process conditions, product properties, and product yields, as well as a discussion of energy-saving possibilities. A biorefinery scheme was proposed based on these data. The current knowledge gaps were identified and future directions were evaluated, which include the production of charcoals, platform chemicals, and extract profiling for specific applications. The results indicate that barks are particularly rich in hydrophilic extractives with potential antioxidant properties and pyrolysis operations, resulting in functional chars that may be used in value-added applications as adsorbent materials. A biorefinery scheme allows for the production of platform chemicals, antioxidant extracts and biochars from barks while contributing to the reduction of waste and environmental pollution.

Keywords: biomass; biofuels; extractives; fractionation; platform chemicals (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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