Pyrolysis: meaning, definitions and examples

Pyrolysis describes the process of heating organic materials in the absence of oxygen to break them down into simpler compounds, typically used in chemical industries and biofuel production.

• During pyrolysis, the biomass is converted into biochar, bio-oil, and syngas

Thermal decomposition is a general term for breaking down compounds into simpler substances by heating. It can be used in various contexts, including chemistry and materials science.

• The thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate produces calcium oxide and carbon dioxide

Carbonization is the process of converting organic materials into carbon or carbon-containing residues through pyrolysis. It is often used when talking about producing charcoal.

• The carbonization of wood in a kiln produces high-quality charcoal

Cracking refers to a process in the petrochemical industry where larger hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller, more useful molecules like gasoline and ethylene. It typically involves high temperatures and sometimes catalysts.

• The cracking of crude oil is a critical step in turning it into gasoline and other fuels

used in scientific and industrial settings to describe the thermal decomposition of materials at high temperatures in an inert atmosphere.

• Pyrolysis is a crucial process in the conversion of biomass into biochar.
• The pyrolysis of plastics can result in the production of useful chemicals.

used broadly to describe the decomposition caused by heat, not limited to an inert atmosphere, and can be found in both scientific and more general literature.

• Thermolysis occurs when compounds break down upon heating.
• In fire conditions, thermolysis can quickly degrade the material.

an older or less commonly used term, often found in historical scientific literature, referring to the generation or production of heat.

• Early researchers studied pyrogenation processes to understand combustion better.

used to emphasize the chemical breakdown aspect of pyrolysis, usually found in more detailed technical or scientific contexts.

• The pyrolytic decomposition of organic material produces volatile gases.
• Studying the pyrolytic decomposition of substances helps us understand their thermal stability.