527 Q11 Fuel Reforming 2

Biomass feedstock is first converted into _______ prior to being reformed.

• biomass-derived vapors

• syngas (H₂ + CO + CO₂)

• pure H₂

• combustion products (CO₂ + H₂O + O₂ + N₂)

The challenges associated with the reforming of the organic compounds in biomass-derived vapors include

(check all that applies; no partial credit)

• the need for high temperature

• the need for an active stable catalyst

• coke formation and carbon deposition on the catalyst surface

• catalyst oxidation (if the catalyst contains transition metals)

Catalyst stability is the biggest challenge for the commercialization of biomass-reforming technology.

• True

• False

The initial conversion process of biomass includes

(check all that applies; no partial credit)

• anaerobic digestion

• gasification

• pyrolysis

The initial thermochemical conversion of biomass produces

(check all that applies; no partial credit)

• biochar

• bio-oil

• gas

• tar

• clean syngas (H₂ + CO)

Pyrolysis is the thermochemical decomposition of biomass in the absence of oxidizers.

• True

• False

Gasification is the thermochemical conversion of biomass in the presence of an oxidizer (steam, air, or oxygen).

• True

• False

Gasification is performed at higher temperatures than pyrolysis.

• True

• False

The higher the gasification temperature, the better.

• True, because this reduces the yield of solids and tar and increases the yield of gases.

• False, because this demands more energy.

• Both statements are true.

For syngas production, the pyrolysis process should be

• slow

• fast

• (it does not matter)

• (pyrolysis cannot be used for syngas production)