Application and Prospects of Sludge Pyrolysis Technology

Abstract

Sludge pyrolysis technology, as an effective method for sludge treatment and resource utilization, has attracted widespread attention in recent years. This technology involves heating sludge under anaerobic or low-oxygen conditions to convert organic components into solid (biochar), liquid (bio-oil), and gaseous products. This approach not only significantly reduces the volume of sludge, achieving sludge reduction and stabilization, but also recovers energy and valuable chemical substances, offering significant environmental and economic benefits. The application prospects for sludge pyrolysis technology are broad. Biochar can be used as a soil conditioner, adsorbent, or for the preparation of high-value carbon materials; bio-oil, after purification and upgrading, can serve as fuel or chemical raw materials; gaseous products can be used for power generation or as chemical raw materials. In addition, sludge pyrolysis technology helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the requirements of sustainable development. Currently, research on sludge pyrolysis technology mainly focuses on improving pyrolysis efficiency, optimizing product distribution, reducing energy consumption and costs, and the high-value utilization of products. Researchers are continuously advancing the development of sludge pyrolysis technology by improving pyrolysis reactor designs, exploring new pyrolysis processes, developing catalysts, and integrating other technologies.