Abstract
An optimized model is developed for the production of bio-fuels from biomass using a SuperPro Designer tool. Four types of Tunisian biomass feedstocks including date palm rachis, olive stones, vine stems and almond shells were selected for the fast pyrolysis process simulation. Simulation tests were performed at different temperatures ranging from 450 to 650 degrees C, and residence times ranging from 0.1 to 10 s and the products yield were determined. The obtained results indicate that a temperature of 575 degrees C and 0.25 s vapor residence time are the optimum parameters to maximize the bio-oil yield. Comparison between the different feedstocks indicates that a higher bio-oil fraction was obtained from the date palm rachis and vine stem. However, the difference between the samples is not significant and further investigations on the bio-oil properties are requested to select the suitable biomass for bio-oil production in Tunisia. (C) 2016 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.