1. Project objective

The pyroFID project is developing a rapid analysis method that can be used directly on site for quality assurance of pyrolysis products such as biochar and bio-oils. Currently, laboratory analyses and indirect process monitoring are used, which are time-consuming and resource-intensive. The pyroFID method enables more efficient and accurate monitoring of product quality. In this proof of concept project, an initial functional prototype will be created and tested with biochar samples.

2. How does the process work?

A sample of the pyrolysis product is heated to 900°C within a few minutes. This releases various hydrocarbons, the concentration of which is measured using a gas analyzer (FID – flame ionization detector). The process recognizes three different temperature ranges:

1. From room temperature to approx. 250°C: Release of adsorbed organic compounds.
2. From 250°C to the nominal pyrolysis temperature: Thermochemical decomposition of hydrocarbons that have not yet been pyrolyzed.
3. Nominal pyrolysis temperature: sharp increase in the concentration of hydrocarbons.

This allows three critical quality parameters to be examined: the amount of adsorbed hydrocarbons, the homogeneity and completeness of the pyrolysis, and the nominal pyrolysis temperature.

3. Significance of the project

The pyroFID process enables quality-assured, just-in-time production of biochar for industrial applications. It supports continuous monitoring of relevant quality parameters and forms the basis for reliable, timely, and consistently high-quality production. This is a decisive advantage for biochar manufacturers and for use by certification institutions and testing laboratories.

In addition, the system enables targeted process optimization and control. Coupled with adaptive control, different product qualities can be easily controlled, yield maximized, and plant capacity optimally utilized. At the same time, consistent product quality is ensured.

Another area of application is in research and development. For research institutions, the pyroFID process offers the possibility of analyzing pyrolysis processes quickly and precisely, thus supporting the tar

4. Possible applications

The pyroFID process can be used in various areas:

• Industrial application: Quality-assured and just-in-time production of biochar.
• Research and development: Fast and precise analysis of pyrolysis processes.
• Certification institutions and testing laboratories: Monitoring of product quality.

5. Future exploitation strategy

The pyroFID process has been registered for patent, with BEST holding the sole property rights. The exploitation strategy includes research collaborations for the further development of the technology, initially through royalty-free use for joint publications. To this end, BEST is seeking collaborations with biochar manufacturers, pyrolysis technology providers, certification institutions, and research institutions. These partnerships are intended to test the technology under real-world conditions, integrate it into existing systems, and incorporate it into certificates and standards. In the long term, a licensing strategy will be pursued. This strategy aims to bring the technology to market maturity and promote its widespread application in industry and research.