The combustion performances and thermo-oxidative degradation kinetics of plane tree seeds (PTS) (Platanus orientalis L.)

Abstract

Combustion characteristics (reactivity and reactivity evaluation, ignition index (Di), burn-out index (Df), combustion performance index (S) and combustion stability index (RW)) and thermo-oxidative degradation kinetics of plane tree seeds (PTS) were investigated. Oxidation analysis shows that PTS exhibits stable and high combustion activity, where comparison of ignition and burn-out index values showed that a more developed pore structures of PTS particles exist, and higher volatile matter content is present. Results are also confirmed through derived experience constant value (ζ) and which were compared with other energy sources. It was established that different maximal reaction rate values at various heating rates point out the PTS complex nature, which is stimulated with carbon oxidation reactions and volatile matter release. Kinetic analysis has shown that process can be divided into two stages: devolatilization stage (280–380 °C) and char combustion stage (380–600 °C). In order to obtain a stable solid product, rich in carbon, the PTS shows good performance but with application of high-temperature processing conditions.