Kinetic and Thermal Behavior Analysis of Sludge, Cow Manure, Cork, and Wood Flour During Pyrolysis Treatment

Abstract The global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has heightened interest in biomass as a renewable feedstock for energy production. Among thermochemical processes, pyrolysis presents a promising method for converting biomass into valuable fuels, chemicals, and biochar. This study investigates the thermal degradation behavior and kinetic properties of four distinct biomasses—municipal sludge, cow manure, cork, and wood flour—using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) at a constant heating rate of 5 °C/min. Mass loss profiles, enthalpy changes, kinetic energies, and activation energies were analyzed to elucidate the thermal stability and reactivity of each material. Activation energies were estimated using a simplified Kissinger method based on mass degradation rates. Cork exhibited the highest enthalpy release (16,021 J/min), reflecting its highly aromatic, lignin-rich structure, while sludge displayed the lowest energy output, attributed to its high inorganic content. Wood flour demonstrated characteristics of crystalline cellulose decomposition, whereas cow manure exhibited a two-step degradation behavior linked to hemicellulose and cellulose breakdown. These findings provide critical insights into the pyrolysis behavior of diverse biomass resources and offer a scientific basis for optimizing energy recovery processes from mixed waste streams.