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Microwave-assisted upcycling of coke wastes from a pilot-scale biomass pyrolysis system: Method optimization and mechanism insights

Author

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  • Wang, Siyu
  • Xu, Lianhua
  • Lin, Ruobing
  • Sun, Daoguang
  • Zhang, Huiyan

Abstract

Coke waste accumulation in biomass pyrolysis systems poses significant operational and environmental challenges, disrupting production and limiting renewable energy scalability. This study presents a self-catalyzed microwave-assisted pyrolysis method, leveraging the intrinsic catalytic properties of coke waste to facilitate the reaction without requiring external catalysts. This process seeks to transform coke waste from a pilot-scale biomass pyrolysis system into high-value carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and synthesis gas. Comprehensive analysis of coke samples from various pipeline locations revealed notable structural and chemical differences, which in turn influenced their microwave absorption and reactivity. Experimental results demonstrated that optimizing the microwave power and blending ratios of different coke components significantly enhanced the selectivity of CNTs and H2 production. Isothermal kinetic modeling confirmed a strong correlation with a first-order reaction model, with an activation energy of 11.173 kJ/mol. Furthermore, the CNTs exhibited outstanding electrocatalytic performance, reaching an onset potential of 0.85 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), comparable to commercial Pt/C catalysts. This underscores their potential as efficient electrocatalysts for renewable energy devices, such as fuel cells, demonstrating the value-added utilization of coke waste through microwave-assisted pyrolysis and its viability for sustainable energy applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Siyu & Xu, Lianhua & Lin, Ruobing & Sun, Daoguang & Zhang, Huiyan, 2026. "Microwave-assisted upcycling of coke wastes from a pilot-scale biomass pyrolysis system: Method optimization and mechanism insights," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 261(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:261:y:2026:i:c:s0960148126000996
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2026.125274
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