Pyrolysis with screw heat exchangers

Celsius from The Netherlands has successfully developed a specific technology using screw heat exchangers to carry out various pyrolysis processes. Pyrolysis is a sustainable process with a pure end product. Due to the reduction in fossil fuel reserves and the demand for environmentally friendly production methods there is a great need for a sustainable and efficient recycling method.

The development of this technology is something that The Netherlands can be proud of. After years of in-depth research, many tests and closely tracking all the developments. We can finally lift a corner of the veil on what we have been working on.

What exactly is Pyrolysis?
‘Pyrolysis’ is an old Greek word and means ‘decomposition caused by heat’. In the Pyrolysis process materials are broken down into separate usable fractions. The material is as it were thermally decomposed, a process also called cracking or (incorrectly) dry distillation. It is essential for this process that no oxygen is present. The process environment is inert. There is therefore no “combustion” involved. What remains, the end product, is a pure product.

Advantages of pyrolysis
The Pyrolysis process is a very environmentally friendly and safe method of processing organic material (waste). As a result there is a minimal emission of hazardous substances. The clean product obtained is suitable for recycling and even the Pyrolysis gas given off during the process is recycled in the plant as fuel. Screw heat exchangers have been used successfully in the pyrolysis process for processing biomass, car tyres, coal and Bioliq.

Who is working on pyrolysis within °Celsius/Van Beek?
The concept was developed in the Test Centre of Celsius, headed by process technologist, Engineer Martijn van den Hil. Together with MSc. Manuel Paans, chemical technologist, they scaled up and developed the concept further. What once began as a pilot plant for carrying out and testing pyrolysis processes on a laboratory scale has now turned into large-scale long-term projects for a number of clients.

While commercial activities are continuing, the R&D department is also carrying on its work. Various research projects in cooperation with clients in the field of chemical technology and mechanical engineering are underway to gain an even better understanding of the process and to be able to make improvements.

For more information:    Telephone: +31(0)416 37 52 25  Fax: +31(0)416 37 83 50
E-mail: meijer@van-beek.nl Website : www.van-beek.nl