Corncob pyrolysis for sustainable bio-oil production; a review of pretreatment, conversion, and improvement techniques

Abstract

The growing demand for renewable energy has intensified research into biomass conversion for sustainable fuel production. This review examines corncob as a promising feedstock for bio-oil production with specific focus on its pretreatment, processing, pyrolysis, prospects, and challenges. Findings revealed that corncob contains cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, with a moisture content in the range of 3–11%. The biomass also exhibits relatively high volatile matter, low ash content and a heating value of 16–22 MJ/kg. Bio-oil yields from corncob pyrolysis range from 35.1% to 60%, depending on conditions. This highlights the challenges associated with feedstock variability, scalability of bio-oil production, and the environmental impacts of pyrolysis process. Addressing these challenges through innovative pretreatment and enhancement methods, process optimization, and stringent quality control measures is essential for achieving consistent and sustainable bio-oil production from corncob.