| pyrolysis | The thermal decomposition of biomass at high temperatures (greater than 400> F, or 200> C) in the absence of air. The end product of pyrolysis is a mixture of solids (char), liquids (oxygenated oils), and gases (methane, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide) with proportions determined by operating temperature, pressure, oxygen content, and other conditions. (05 Dec 1998) |
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| slow pyrolysis | Thermal conversion of biomass to fuel by slow heating to less than 450>C in the absence of oxygen. (05 Dec 1998) |
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| fast pyrolysis | Thermal conversion of biomass by rapid heating to between 450> To 600>C in the absence of oxygen. (05 Dec 1998) |