6–10 Jul 2026
University of the Western Cape
Africa/Johannesburg timezone
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Conversion of Pine Wood Residue for Enhanced Hydrogen Production via Catalytic Pyrolysis Process

10 Jul 2026, 10:10
20m
Lecture Hall DL3 (University of the Western Cape)

Lecture Hall DL3

University of the Western Cape

Oral Presentation Track F - Applied Physics Applied Physics

Speaker

Mithayelanga Mazitshana (Cput)

Description

The increasing generation of solid waste and rising demand for sustainable energy have intensified interest in efficient waste-to-energy technologies. Thermochemical conversion processes, particularly gasification and pyrolysis, provide viable routes for transforming biomass into hydrogen-rich synthesis gas. However, limitations in hydrogen yield and process efficiency remain due to incomplete conversion and suboptimal operating conditions. This study investigates an integrated catalytic pyrolysis system aimed at enhancing hydrogen production through improved reaction dynamics and process optimisation. Pine wood residue was characterised prior to conversion to establish its thermal and compositional properties. Proximate analysis using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed a three-stage degradation profile consisting of moisture release, devolatilisation of hemicellulose and cellulose, and gradual lignin decomposition, reflecting its suitability for thermochemical conversion. Ultimate analysis via CHN indicated carbon content of
42.97–43.22%, hydrogen
6.80–8.70%, and low nitrogen (0.12–0.15%), supporting its potential for clean syngas production. The composition of the produced syngas was quantified using gas chromatography (GC), enabling evaluation of key gaseous species. The influence of catalysts, including Ni(NO₃)₂ and Co(NO₃)₂, and operational parameters such as temperature, heating rate, and feedstock-to-catalyst ratio were systematically investigated. Ni(NO₃)₂ exhibited superior catalytic performance, yielding higher hydrogen concentrations, particularly at elevated temperatures. These findings demonstrate that catalyst-assisted pyrolysis enhances reaction efficiency and hydrogen yield, contributing to the development of optimised waste-to-energy systems.

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