Pyrolysis
Pyrolysis
Pyrolysis (pronunciation: /paɪˈrɒlɪsɪs/) is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen or any halogen. It involves the simultaneous change of chemical composition and physical phase, and is irreversible. The word is coined from the Greek-derived elements pyro "fire" and lysis "separating".
Etymology
The term "pyrolysis" comes from the Greek words "pyro" meaning fire and "lysis" meaning separating. It was first used in the 16th century to describe a chemical reaction caused by heat.
Process
Pyrolysis is a type of thermochemical reaction, which means it involves a chemical reaction and heat. Unlike combustion, pyrolysis does not involve oxygen, it is carried out in its absence. The process is used in various industrial applications such as in production of charcoal, biochar, activated carbon, methanol, and other chemicals.
Related Terms
- Thermochemical: A type of chemical reaction that involves heat.
- Oxygen: A chemical element with symbol O and atomic number 8. It is a member of the chalcogen group on the periodic table and is a highly reactive nonmetal and oxidizing agent.
- Charcoal: A lightweight black carbon residue produced by strongly heating wood (or other animal and plant materials) in minimal oxygen to remove all water and volatile constituents.
- Biochar: A charcoal product that is used in soil amendment. It is produced by pyrolysis of biomass.
- Activated carbon: A form of carbon processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase the surface area available for adsorption or chemical reactions.
- Methanol: A chemical with the formula CH3OH (a methyl group linked to a hydroxyl group, often abbreviated MeOH). It is used as an antifreeze, solvent, fuel, and as a denaturant for ethanol.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pyrolysis
- Wikipedia's article - Pyrolysis
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