A guide to physical property characterisation of biomass-derived fast pyrolysis liquids

This publication is a revised and updated version of VTT Publication 306: Physical characterisation of biomass-based pyrolysis liquids, issued in 1997. The main purpose of the on-going study is to test the applicability of standard fuel oil methods developed for petroleum-based fuels to pyrolysis liquids. New methods have also been tested and further developed. The methods were tested for pyrolysis liquids derived from hardwood, softwood, forest residue, and straw. Recommendations on liquid handling and analyses are presented. In general, most of the standard methods can be used as such, but the accuracy of the analyses can be improved by minor modifications. Homogeneity of the liquids is the most critical factor in the accurate analyses, and hence procedures for its verification are presented.