Analysis of analytical methods for characterizing wastewater generated from wood pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction

Abstract

The goal of the thesis was to evaluate different analytical methods for the characterization of wastewaters produced during wood pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL). The study aimed to independently characterize and determine the properties of the wastewater generated through these processes and to assess the suitability and precision of the analytical methods used.

To obtain the data related to characterization, a comprehensive literature review was done on all those methods applied for this purpose. Techniques involved Gas Chromatography (GC-MS), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) and Total organic Carbon (TOC) analysis.

In this regard, the results obtained indicated with statistical significance high variability in wastewater composition for both processes: GC-MS and HPLC were found to be good for identification as well as quantification of various organic compounds, including phenols, acids and other VOCs. The ICP-MS gave a very good characterization of the trace metal content present, and secondly FTIR established the broad range of functional groups reflecting complex organic molecules. Finally, TOC analysis showed the high organic load of wastewater and due to this fact TGA was used that also demonstrated the thermal stability of residues.

The results conclude that collection of these analytical methods when combined can provide an overall picture for characterizing wastewater and further assist in treatment routes to meet environmental standards. Further investigation in this area would help to improve these methods and find new ways for more effective wastewater treatment.