Abstract
Biomass gasification, including the gasification of waste, is a mature technology where biomass particles are converted mainly into a combustible gas called producer gas. However, cleaning the producer gas remains a significant challenge. This study tests multiple chars produced from an industrial gasifier, a pilot-scale gasifier, and a lab pyrolysis reactor for their efficiency in removing naphthalene, ethylbenzene, and toluene. Moreover, the study evaluates the impact of reforming environment (N2 and synthetic syngas with/without steam) and temperature (650 °C, 750 °C). At 750 °C and in the absence of a catalyst, switching the carrier gas from N2 to synthetic syngas enhanced the toluene and naphthalene removal efficiencies significantly. The catalyst impact was more pronounced at 650 °C, with the best-performing char characterized by a high surface area (1454 m2 g−1) and ash content (10.15 wt%). In absence of steam, the tar content was reduced from 39.9 g Nm−3 to 24.3 g Nm−3. Introducing steam further reduced the outlet tar content to 11.7 g Nm−3. Utilizing gasification char for tar reforming not only adds value to waste but also aligns with the circular economy principles. This process enhances the quality of producer gas with the aid of a sustainably sourced catalyst. Remarkably, the char was used in its original form without modification, yet demonstrated exceptional performance in tar reforming.