Pyrolysis device for bio-based materials, and pyrolysis method implementing same

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (20) for pyrolysis of a bio-based material (29), said device comprising: a reactor (21); a first opening (26) for injecting pyrolysis gas into a lower part (25) of the reactor; and a second opening (27) for collecting gas from an upper part (24) of said reactor (21). This device further comprises: a plurality of stackable receptacles (28) which have a discontinuous peripheral wall, are intended to contain the pyrolysis material and are able to move from the upper part (24) to the lower part (25) of the reactor; an isolated inlet space (32) for successively loading the receptacles into the reactor (21); an isolated outlet space (36) for successively unloading the receptacles (28) from the reactor (21); and means (34, 38) for opening and closing the reactor (21) at the isolated inlet space (32) and the isolated outlet space (36).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Title: Pyrolysis Device for Bio-Based Materials and Pyrolysis Process Implementing It

[0003] The invention falls within the technical field of process engineering and relates to the thermal treatment of raw materials, in particular the pyrolysis of low-density bio-based materials.

[0004] More specifically, the present invention relates to a pyrolysis device and process for the transformation of low density and / or small size bio-based materials into solid carbon product(s).

[0005] Pyrolysis applied to bio-based materials, also known as biomass, allows for their valorization through the production of high-value carbon products. It is a thermal treatment process in which bio-based materials, or biomass, are thermolytically decomposed in the absence of oxygen, generating gas, possibly liquid (in the form of oil), and solid carbonaceous materials (e.g., biochar, activated carbon, etc.). During pyrolysis, the material is generally subjected to different treatment phases, such as drying, torrefaction, pyrolysis itself, and cooling, which are associated with different temperature ranges. The pyrolysis process can be applied to various types of bio-based materials. However, currently available technologies have significant limitations affecting their efficiency and operational flexibility.

[0006] Among the known technologies in this field, batch furnaces process the material feed discontinuously, resulting in transitions between different processing phases. A significant drawback of these furnaces lies in the evolution of pyrolysis co-products during the process, which limits their energy recovery. Consequently, the lower heating value (LHV) of the products varies considerably. It is practically zero after drying, very low during roasting, high during the active pyrolysis phase, and low again during cooling. This variability in the LHV makes their use for energy purposes difficult. A solution proposed by prior art to overcome this problem is the use of furnaces that process the material continuously, for which the energy quality of the gaseous pyrolysis co-products is relatively constant and high under steady-state conditions.Rotating cylindrical furnaces and devices equipped with internal augers are also used for biomass pyrolysis. However, these systems, although continuous, cause the feedstock to move through a reactor, which affects product quality, particularly with low-density materials. As the material becomes friable during processing, flow problems and bridging can occur, disrupting the process and requiring increased maintenance. Furthermore, this type of furnace generally requires custom design, tailored to each type of biomass, resulting in lengthy and costly development periods with no guarantee of the resulting efficiency.

[0007] Continuous vertical pyrolysis furnaces are known for their efficiency in carbonizing solid biomass, particularly large and high-density materials. However, these furnaces have significant limitations when processing low-density and / or small-sized bio-based materials. Thus, the furnace developed by Lambiotte, hereinafter referred to as the "Lambiotte furnace," typically designed for pyrolyzing large wood items, such as logs approximately 20 cm long and 10 cm in diameter, is not suitable for pyrolyzing small and / or low-density granular materials or agricultural, forestry, or industrial residues.

[0008] The efficiency and performance of vertical pyrolysis furnaces like the Lambiotte furnace depend heavily on the size and density of the material being processed, particularly to avoid problems such as top-to-bottom flow of the charge and / or the formation of bridging. When a Lambiotte furnace is commissioned, the reactor is filled with charcoal, which is gradually discharged through an opening at the bottom of the reactor as the materials to be pyrolyzed are introduced through another opening at the top. The absence of oxygen in the reactor environment is maintained by the volume of the charge, which blocks the openings and prevents air from entering.High-temperature pyrolysis gas is injected into the reactor and rises while cooling, generating a temperature gradient that allows the different stages of pyrolysis to occur (drying in the upper part of the reactor, roasting in the upper intermediate zone, pyrolysis itself in the lower intermediate zone, and cooling below the hot gas injection point). The materials must have sufficient density to move through the reactor under gravity to undergo the various heat treatment stages. They must also be of sufficient size to allow the internal heat of the pyrolysis process to be transferred efficiently and evenly.In this respect, the Lambiotte furnace is not suitable for the satisfactory pyrolysis of materials in the form of small and / or low-density particles. Such materials are prone to uneven distribution within the reactor, creating obstructions and bridging, resulting in poor gas permeability and therefore uneven heat distribution, with dead zones or inadequate heating. This can lead to heterogeneous and inefficient pyrolytic conversion, or even furnace shutdown. Furthermore, the uneven distribution of small and / or low-density particles can promote oxygen penetration into the reactor.

[0009] Therefore, the incompatibility of Lambiotte furnaces with biomass in the form of small and / or low-density entities represents a major obstacle for the pyrolytic conversion of this type of bio-based material.

[0010] The present invention aims to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks by providing a pyrolysis device that allows for the efficient and homogeneous processing of bio-based materials in the form of small and / or low-density entities. A further objective of the invention is that this device, as well as the process implementing it, be simple to use and energy-efficient, with reduced maintenance requirements.

[0011] In this description, pyrolysis is classically defined in itself as the thermal treatment under an inert atmosphere of an organic substance, resulting in its chemical decomposition into simpler substances.

[0012] To this end, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a device capable of being implemented continuously for the pyrolysis conversion of a bio-based material into solid carbon product(s), particularly suited to configurations in which the bio-based material is in the form of small and / or low-density entities. This device comprises:

[0013] - a reactor comprising a peripheral side wall extending along a longitudinal axis, and comprising a central part situated between an upper end part and a lower end part,

[0014] - a first orifice, preferably drilled in the peripheral side wall of the reactor, for the injection into the reactor of pyrolysis gas, i.e. gas at a temperature ensuring the pyrolysis of the bio-based material, for example between 200°C and 1000°C, this first orifice being disposed in the said lower end part of the said reactor,

[0015] - a second orifice, preferably drilled in the peripheral side wall of the reactor, for collecting gas from the reactor, this second orifice being located in the upper end part of the reactor.

[0016] The first orifice can alternatively be located in a central part of said reactor.

[0017] This system also includes:

[0018] - a plurality of stackable receptacles, identical or different, intended to contain the bio-based material, each of the receptacles having a bottom wall and a discontinuous peripheral side wall and each of said receptacles being configured so as to be able to be introduced into the reactor and move within it from the upper end part to the lower end part, in a so-called operating position in which the bottom wall is opposite the lower end part of the reactor,

[0019] - an entry airlock communicating via a first window with the upper end of the reactor, this entry airlock and the first window being configured to allow the successive loading of receptacles from the entry airlock into the reactor, in the operating position,

[0020] - a first partition that can be actuated between a closed position in which it blocks the first window and an open position in which it releases the first window,

[0021] - means for actuating the first partition between the closed position and the open position,

[0022] - an exit airlock communicating via a second window with the lower end of the reactor, this exit airlock and the second window being configured to allow the successive unloading of the reactor receptacles into the exit airlock,

[0023] - a second partition that can be actuated between a closed position in which it blocks the second window and an open position in which it releases the second window,

[0024] - and means of actuation of the second partition between the closed position and the open position.

[0025] For the purposes of this description, bio-based material, or biomass, means any substance derived from renewable resources of biological origin. Such bio-based material may include, but is not limited to, plant-based materials such as cellulose fibers, starch, sugars, vegetable oils, and proteins; animal-based materials such as fats and proteins; and organic waste from agricultural, industrial, household, or food sources. A bio-based material conforming to the present invention encompasses both raw materials and processed or refined materials, retaining their bio-based character.

[0026] Solid carbon products are defined as any material in a solid state composed primarily of bonded carbon atoms, and which can exist in various physical forms such as powders, granules, pellets, or porous or agglomerated structures. Solid carbon products obtained by pyrolysis of bio-based materials include biochars, charcoals, etc.

[0027] A reactor is defined as an enclosure designed to accommodate chemical, physical, or biological reactions under controlled conditions. In the context of the present invention, a reactor is more specifically defined as an enclosure, primarily closed during operation, capable of supporting thermal conversion processes such as pyrolysis.

[0028] The gas(s) used according to the invention for pyrolysis can be of any type conventional in itself for the pyrolysis reactions of bio-based materials. Such gases are typically oxygen-free and chemically inert with respect to the targeted bio-based materials. Examples of such gases include, but are not limited to:

[0029] - non-condensable gases, the main ones being carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane and dihydrogen;

[0030] - as well as gases that can be condensed at room temperature, but are present in gaseous form under pyrolysis conditions, such as: hydrocarbon products from the alcohol families, for example methanol, aldehydes and ketones, acids, for example acetic acid, formic acid or propionic acid, furans, for example furfural, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, for example benzene, toluene or xylene, nitrogenous aromatic compounds, for example pyridine, sugars, for example levoglucosan, phenols, guaiacols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), etc.

[0031] As indicated above, the pyrolysis gases used according to the invention preferably have a temperature between 200 and 1000 °C.

[0032] In the device according to the invention, the receptacles advantageously provide physical support for the bio-based material, allowing it to be confined at all times to a delimited and controlled area of ​​the device, particularly inside the reactor. They also advantageously facilitate the thermal treatment of the bio-based material they contain, thanks to the discontinuous nature of their peripheral side wall, which allows the pyrolysis gas moving within the reactor to penetrate the receptacles and come into contact with the bio-based material.

[0033] In this description, a discontinuous wall is understood to be a perforated wall, that is, one having at least one, preferably a plurality, of openings through its thickness. The receptacles of the device according to the invention are stackable, so that they can be stacked one on top of the other inside the reactor, thus completely filling it to its full height. This feature advantageously helps to maintain an oxygen-free environment within the reactor, as the volume of the charge contained therein limits the entry of air through the various openings of the reactor.

[0034] The stackable nature of the receptacles also facilitates their loading into the reactor, their movement within the reactor, and their unloading from the reactor, while ensuring optimal passage of gases and heat thanks to their discontinuous peripheral side wall.

[0035] Preferably, a plurality of receptacles are arranged in the reactor, each in its operational position. The reactor is preferably completely filled by these receptacles, to its full height.

[0036] When the receptacles are in the reactor, said receptacles are stacked one on top of the other and are configured to move, by gravity, from the upper end part to the lower end part of said reactor.

[0037] The device according to the invention thus advantageously eliminates the need for additional mechanisms to move the receptacles within the reactor. Gravity alone is sufficient to move the receptacles within the reactor.

[0038] Such a device makes it possible to solve the problems of vaulting, to use any type of biomass and to significantly reduce the risks of failure, as well as the equipment and maintenance costs of said device.

[0039] In particular embodiments of the invention, the peripheral side wall of the receptacles has on its outer face, and / or the peripheral side wall of the reactor has on its inner face, at least one deflector. A deflector is understood to be an element that channels and directs a gas flow, in this case the gas flow within the reactor.

[0040] Preferably, such a deflector is positioned on the inner face of the peripheral side wall of the reactor, above the first orifice, so as to direct the gas entering the reactor through this first orifice towards the upper end of the reactor. Preferably, each receptacle has at least one deflector, located on the outer face of its side wall, to guide the gas from the bottom wall towards the opposite upper end of the receptacle. This advantageously generates turbulence to promote the movement of the gas towards the upper end of the reactor and / or towards the interior of the receptacle.

[0041] The inlet and outlet airlocks of the device according to the invention are preferably generally sealed against the environment outside the device, except during the transfer phases of the receptacles between themselves and the external environment. They advantageously allow the controlled transfer of the receptacles between the reactor and the external environment, while preventing the penetration of undesirable substances, in particular oxygen, into the reactor.

[0042] The first window and the second window are configured, in terms of shape and dimensions, to allow the passage through them of the receptacles in their operating position, that is to say in which their bottom wall is directed towards the lower end part of the reactor.

[0043] The first window, or the second window, respectively, comprises a first partition, or a second partition. The first partition, or the second partition, respectively, can be actuated between a closed position, in which it seals the first window, or the second window, respectively, and an open position, in which it releases the first window, or the second window, respectively. Each of these partitions is preferably configured to close its associated window in a gas-tight manner.

[0044] By actuation means, we mean a system capable of moving the first partition, and the second partition respectively, between the open and closed positions. Any conventional actuation means can be used within the scope of the present invention. Such actuation means may be, but are not limited to, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, manual, etc. In the device according to the present invention, the first and second partitions advantageously maintain the atmospheric and thermal conditions of the reactor's internal environment when they are in the closed position, while allowing, when they are in the open position, the sequential passage of said receptacles from the inlet airlock to the reactor for the first partition, and from the reactor to the outlet airlock for the second partition, through the corresponding windows.

[0045] The device according to the invention may also meet one or more of the characteristics described below, implemented in isolation or in each of their technically operative combinations.

[0046] In particular embodiments of the invention, the reactor contains a rod extending from its upper end to its lower end along the longitudinal axis. The bottom wall of each receptacle is further pierced by a through opening, the rod and the opening being configured such that the rod can be inserted into the opening when the receptacles are in the reactor in their operating position.

[0047] This rod, which passes through the reactor from the upper end to the lower end, advantageously guides the receptacles during their journey through the reactor, from the upper end to the lower end.

[0048] Preferably, the device is configured such that, when a receptacle is inserted around the rod, there is a gap between the peripheral side wall of the receptacle and the peripheral side wall of the reactor, thereby facilitating the movement of gases within the reactor, around the receptacles. In particular embodiments of the invention, the rod is located substantially at the center of the reactor, and the opening is centrally positioned in the bottom wall of the receptacles.

[0049] Centrally positioned, we mean that the opening is located at the geometric center of the bottom wall of the receptacles, which has the advantage of improving the stability of the receptacles during their passage through the reactor. This results, in particular, in better uniformity of the heat treatment of the bio-based materials contained within the receptacles.

[0050] In particular embodiments of the invention, each receptacle comprises a tubular guide extending within the receptacle from the bottom wall, around the opening, and perpendicular to this bottom wall. This tubular guide is configured to be able to slide around the rod in the operating position of the receptacle in the reactor.

[0051] Advantageously, this tubular guide improves the stability of the receptacle in the reactor as well as the stability of its movement when the receptacle is placed in the operating position in the reactor: in particular, it ensures a coordinated and stable sliding movement of the receptacle around the rod during its insertion into the reactor, during its progression in the reactor and during its discharge out of the reactor, while contributing to an optimal and uniform distribution of the heat treatment of the bio-based materials contained in the receptacle.

[0052] The receptacles can, at their upper end opposite the bottom wall, be either open or closed, the open configuration being more particularly preferred within the framework of the invention, in order to facilitate the movement of the pyrolysis gas into and out of the receptacle.

[0053] The receptacles of the device according to the invention are preferably all substantially identical.

[0054] In particular embodiments of the present invention, the entry airlock and / or the exit airlock of the device are modular compartments attached to the reactor in a reversible manner.

[0055] This allows for greater flexibility in the device's configuration and facilitates the replacement and maintenance of the entry and / or exit airlock, as well as the reactor. The modularity of the entry and / or exit airlock relative to the reactor also offers advantages in terms of customization, transport, and future upgrades, significantly reducing the constraints associated with a fixed and permanent installation.

[0056] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the inlet airlock and / or the outlet airlock are fixed to the reactor in an irreversible manner, for example formed as a single unit with it.

[0057] In particular embodiments of the present invention, the second orifice of the reactor is connected to an inlet of a gas combustion chamber positioned outside the reactor, this gas combustion chamber being itself connected, at the outlet, i.e. at its end from which the combustion products are evacuated, to the first orifice of the reactor.

[0058] In this context, a gas combustion chamber is defined as an apparatus that receives gases—in this case, the gases produced by the pyrolysis process occurring in the reactor, as well as the gases injected into the reactor to carry out the pyrolysis process—and is designed to burn these gases to recover the combustion product(s) (primarily hot gases). According to the invention, advantageously, the combustion products are introduced into the reactor through the first orifice. They thus advantageously contribute to maintaining the thermal conditions necessary for the pyrolysis process, while reducing the associated energy cost.

[0059] In particular embodiments of the invention, the second orifice of the reactor is connected to a condenser for the recovery of oil(s) possibly contained in the gas collected from the reactor.

[0060] By oil, also called pyrolysis oil or pyrolytic oil, we mean an organic substance, a bioproduct of pyrolysis, having a liquid state at room temperature and low solubility in water, and which may consist of hydrocarbons as well as other organic compounds.

[0061] A condenser is defined as a device designed to cool and condense at least a fraction of an oil present in vapor form into a gas, in this case a gas (or gas mixture) exiting the reactor through the second orifice. The condensation process that takes place in the condenser is achieved by lowering the temperature to the dew point of the oils, and advantageously allows the separation of the oils, which are valuable bio-products of pyrolysis, from the remaining gas. The condenser as implemented in the device according to the invention can be of any conventional type, in particular any device equipped with a cooling surface, means for circulating refrigerants, or any other mechanism contributing to the condensation effect necessary for oil recovery.

[0062] In particular embodiments of the invention, the discontinuous peripheral side wall of the receptacles comprises at least one mesh-shaped area. Preferably, the entire discontinuous peripheral side wall of the receptacles is formed of a mesh. A mesh is defined as a network of interlaced or intersecting elements, forming a set of open cells. Advantageously, the mesh of the discontinuous peripheral side wall of the receptacles allows for optimal gas circulation and uniform heat distribution within the receptacles in the reactor, facilitating the pyrolysis of the bio-based material contained in the receptacles. Another advantage of the mesh is that it contributes to the structural robustness of the receptacles while minimizing obstruction of gas and heat flow, so that pyrolysis can occur with optimal efficiency.

[0063] The reactor rod preferably has a solid wall to maximize its rigidity. In particular embodiments of the invention, this solid wall can be punctured at specific points, advantageously allowing gas circulation within it.

[0064] In particular embodiments of the invention, the reactor and receptacles are made of stainless steel, which offers advantages in terms of thermal resistance, as stainless steel can withstand very high temperatures without deforming or losing its mechanical properties. The use of stainless steel also offers advantages in terms of durability, as this material can maintain its structural integrity over long periods, thus reducing the need for maintenance, as well as advantages in terms of functional compatibility, since stainless steel is chemically inert with respect to bio-based materials.

[0065] In particular embodiments of the invention, the peripheral side wall of the reactor is at least partially surrounded by a sheath of insulating material.

[0066] An insulating material sheath refers to an external casing applied around the peripheral side wall of the reactor, which isolates it from the external environment. This reduces heat loss to the outside, optimizing the energy consumption of the pyrolysis unit. The insulating material sheath also provides valuable protection for any operators who may need to work on the pyrolysis unit and come into contact with the reactor.

[0067] The insulating material forming the sheath can be any insulating material capable of exerting its insulating properties at the temperatures applied for the pyrolysis process. This insulating material can be, but is not limited to: ceramic fibers, mineral wool, aerogel, refractory concrete, glass fibers, perlite or vermiculite-based materials, calcium silicate boards, insulating foam (polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, melamine foam, etc.), composite insulating materials, silica felt, etc.

[0068] In particular embodiments of the invention, the reactor includes at least one third orifice, preferably drilled in the peripheral side wall of the reactor, for the entry of gas into the reactor, preferably positioned in the lower end part of the reactor, for carrying out a treatment of the bio-based material ancillary to pyrolysis.

[0069] Such ancillary treatment can be a secondary chemical and / or thermal treatment, distinct from pyrolysis, and carried out in a complementary manner. For example, it may consist of injecting reactive or inert gases to modify the atmosphere within the reactor, or catalysts to accelerate specific reactions.

[0070] In particular embodiments of the invention, the ancillary treatment consists of injecting carbon dioxide or steam into the reactor, to increase the production of activated carbons or biochars with a high specific surface area.

[0071] The presence of the third orifice for carrying out an additional treatment to pyrolysis thus advantageously allows the user of the device to be able, on demand, to optimize, improve and / or complete the thermal conversion of bio-based materials.

[0072] Alternatively, the third orifice can be positioned at a different part of the reactor than the lower end part.

[0073] The present invention further relates to a continuous pyrolysis process for the pyrolytic conversion of a bio-based material into solid carbonaceous product(s), employing a device according to the invention. This process comprises the following steps: a) the injection of one or more pyrolysis gases into the reactor through the first orifice, and the collection of gas from the reactor through the second orifice, this collection and injection being carried out continuously throughout the process; b) the filling of a plurality of receptacles with the bio-based material to be pyrolyzed, this filling being able to be carried out at any time during the process, and being started before step c) below; c) the iteration of a cycle of steps comprising a phase of unloading one of the receptacles from the reactor and then a phase of loading another of the receptacles containing the bio-based material into the reactor, the unloading phase comprising the following substeps:

[0074] - the actuation of the second partition in the open position,

[0075] - the unloading of a receptacle, more precisely the receptacle closest to the exit airlock, containing the solid product(s) of the pyrolysis of the bio-based material, from the lower end of the reactor into the exit airlock,

[0076] - the actuation of the second partition in the closed position,

[0077] - and the removal of the receptacle from the exit airlock, and the loading phase comprising the following sub-steps:

[0078] - the introduction of the other receptacle, containing the bio-based material, into the entry airlock, in a configuration in which the first partition is in the closed position,

[0079] - the activation of the first partition in the open position,

[0080] - the loading of the receptacle in the upper end part of the reactor from the inlet airlock, this loading preferably occurring spontaneously, under the effect of gravity, so that the receptacle comes to occupy the empty volume generated in the upper end part of the reactor following the unloading of a receptacle from the lower end part, and the movement towards this lower end part of all the receptacles contained in the reactor,

[0081] - and the actuation of the first partition in the closed position, the receptacles progressing through the reactor from the upper end to the lower end by gravity, optionally guided by the rod inserted in the opening in their bottom wall, and optionally by the tubular guide. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the process includes, prior to step c, a step of filling the reactor, to its full height, by stacking receptacles. These receptacles may be empty. Alternatively, and preferably, they may be filled with a thermally inert product, for example, a solid carbonaceous product from a previous pyrolysis. This feature advantageously limits the presence of air at start-up and the accumulation of hot gases in the reactor during its progressive filling by stacking receptacles.

[0082] Advantageously, the pyrolysis process according to the invention, by exploiting gravity, minimizes the energy required to move the receptacles within the reactor of the pyrolysis device, resulting in significant savings in energy and operating costs. Furthermore, no additional mechanism is required besides gravity to advance the receptacles within the reactor; the removal of one receptacle from the reactor causes the remaining receptacles within it to slide down towards the lower end of the reactor, freeing up space for a new receptacle at the opposite upper end. This advantageously reduces the risk of malfunctions, as well as the equipment and maintenance costs of the device.

[0083] Another advantage of the pyrolysis process according to the invention is that it allows the controlled movement of low-density bio-based materials and / or materials in the form of small particles (granular, for example) through the reactor. This is achieved by receptacles that confine these bio-based materials to a well-defined area of ​​the reactor, preventing them from dispersing or becoming trapped in an undesirable zone throughout their passage through the reactor. Furthermore, the movement of these materials within the reactor is advantageously not subject to any mechanical constraints, unlike continuous processes described in the prior art that employ a screw conveyor, a rotating furnace, etc. Any crushing, grinding, or other such phenomena within the reactor are thus avoided.In particular embodiments of the process according to the invention, each pyrolysis gas is introduced into the reactor, through the first orifice, at a temperature between 200°C and 1000°C.

[0084] Advantageously, a temperature between 200°C and 1000°C makes it possible to generate in the reactor the thermal conditions necessary to carry out the pyrolysis process for the vast majority of bio-based materials, to lead to their conversion into solid carbon product(s) without the need to resort to direct combustion.

[0085] In particular embodiments of the invention, the device comprising a combustion chamber connected to the reactor as described above, the method comprises:

[0086] - the entrainment of at least a fraction of the gas collected from the reactor, through the second orifice, to the combustion chamber,

[0087] - the combustion of this gas fraction in this combustion chamber, so as to obtain one or more combustion products,

[0088] - and the conveyance of the combustion product(s) thus obtained to the first orifice, and their injection into the reactor through this first orifice.

[0089] This advantageously allows the energy contained in the gas(s) collected from the reactor to be used to generate heat, which is preferably used for pyrolysis in the reactor, thus reducing the energy cost of the process according to the invention.

[0090] In specific embodiments of the process according to the invention, the device comprising a condenser as described above directs at least a fraction of the gas collected from the reactor through the second orifice to the condenser for the recovery of oil(s) contained in this gas, this oil or these oils being a valuable bioproduct of pyrolysis. Advantageously, such collection of pyrolysis oils improves the valorization of bio-based materials.

[0091] The bio-based material to which the process according to the invention is applied can be of any type. In particular, it can be in the form of small and / or low-density entities. It can be of plant or animal origin. It can, in particular, be organic waste from agricultural, industrial, household, or food sources. The features and advantages of the invention will become clearer in light of the following implementation examples, provided by way of illustration only and in no way limiting the invention, with the support of Figures 1 to 7, in which:

[0092] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 schematically represents a general view of a pyrolysis device according to the invention.

[0093] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 schematically represents a side view of a receptacle of a pyrolysis device according to the invention.

[0094] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 schematically represents a top view of the receptacle in Figure 2.

[0095] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 schematically represents a cross-sectional view along plane AA of the receptacle in Figure 3.

[0096] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 schematically represents a top view of a first partition of a pyrolysis device according to the invention.

[0097] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 schematically represents different successive stages of a process according to the invention, implementing a pyrolysis device according to the invention, respectively: a stage of introducing a receptacle into the inlet of the device (a / ); a stage of loading this receptacle into the reactor (b / ); a stage of progressing this receptacle in the reactor (c / ); a stage of unloading this receptacle out of the reactor towards the outlet (d / ); a stage in which this receptacle is in the outlet (e / ); and a stage of extracting this receptacle out of the outlet (f / ).

[0098] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 schematically represents a pyrolysis device according to the invention comprising additional modules arranged outside the reactor.

[0099] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not to scale.

[0100] It should be noted that, in this text, the term "vertical" is defined in a direction parallel to the direction of gravity. Furthermore, the relative terms "upper" and "lower" are defined along a vertical line and relate to the position of the pyrolysis device according to the invention, as illustrated in Figure 1, with an "upper" element being above a "lower" element. Figure 1 presents a schematic view of the pyrolysis device 20 according to one embodiment of the invention. It comprises a reactor 21, delimited by a peripheral side wall 22 and extending along a longitudinal axis 221. The reactor 21 has a central portion 23 situated between an upper end portion 24 and a lower end portion 25. The reactor 21 is made of a material capable of withstanding high temperatures, such as those of pyrolysis, for example, steel.

[0101] Preferably, and as illustrated in Figure 1, the reactor 21 has a uniform cross-sectional shape and dimensions throughout its height. In an alternative embodiment, not shown in the figures, the shape and / or dimensions of the cross-sectional area of ​​the reactor 21 vary along its height. Preferably, and as illustrated in Figure 1, the reactor 21 is generally cylindrical in shape, although such a shape is in no way limiting of the invention.

[0102] The peripheral side wall 22 of reactor 21 is pierced by a first through orifice 26 for the injection of gas into reactor 21, disposed in the lower end part 25 of reactor 21. Alternatively, the first through orifice 26 may be disposed in a central part 40 of reactor 21. The peripheral side wall 22 of reactor 21 is also pierced by a second through orifice 27 for the collection of gas from reactor 21, disposed in the upper end part 24 of reactor 21.

[0103] The peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 21 can be pierced with a third through orifice 35 for the entry of gas into the reactor, for carrying out an additional treatment to pyrolysis.

[0104] As an example, such an ancillary treatment may be a thermochemical treatment and include the injection through the third port 35 of carbon dioxide, water vapor, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen, acidifying gases (sulfur, nitrogen oxides), helium, catalysts, air, oxygen, etc.

[0105] The ancillary treatment may include the injection of carbon dioxide or water vapor into reactor 21 through the third orifice 35, to ensure the activation of the bio-based material 29 subjected to the pyrolysis process and to produce activated carbons or biochars with a high specific surface area.

[0106] Figure 1 illustrates a pyrolysis device 20 in which the third orifice 35 is positioned in the lower end part 25 of the reactor, below the first orifice 26, such an embodiment not being in any way limiting of the invention, the third orifice 35 being able to be positioned at any part of the reactor 21.

[0107] In embodiments of the invention, not illustrated in the figures, the peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 21 has at least one deflector at its inner face, this deflector being configured and positioned to channel and direct the gas flow, inside the reactor, towards the upper end part 24. Preferably, at least one such deflector is positioned above the first orifice 26 in the reactor 21.

[0108] Preferably, several deflectors are placed along the inner face of the peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 21, above each other and above the first orifice 26.

[0109] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes, as illustrated in Figure 1, a plurality of stackable receptacles 28, intended to receive the bio-based material 29 to be pyrolyzed. Each receptacle 28 has a bottom wall 30 and a discontinuous peripheral side wall 31. For clarity, the receptacles 28 shown in the reactor 21 are slightly spaced apart, whereas in reality they are stacked one on top of the other, each resting on the one immediately below it, due to gravity. Furthermore, only one receptacle 28 is shown containing bio-based material 29, whereas preferably, during operation of the device, all the receptacles contain bio-based material to be pyrolyzed.

[0110] The receptacles 28 of the device are preferably all identical.

[0111] Each is configured, in terms of shape and dimensions, to be able to be introduced into reactor 21 and move there from the upper end part 24 to the lower end part 25 in an operating position in which the bottom wall 30 is opposite the lower end part 25 of reactor 21, as shown in Figure 1.

[0112] The receptacles 28 preferably have a cross-section of uniform dimensions throughout their height. Preferably, the cross-section of each receptacle 28 is the same shape as the cross-section of the reactor 21, in particular, but not limited to, circular, square, rectangular, etc.

[0113] Figure 2 shows a side view, and Figure 3 a top view, of an example of a receptacle 28 of a pyrolysis device 20 according to the invention. Figure 4 shows a cross-section along a longitudinal plane AA of the receptacle 28 of Figure 3.

[0114] In preferred embodiments of the invention, and as illustrated in Figure 2, the discontinuous peripheral side wall 31 of the receptacles 28 is formed by a mesh. The bottom wall 30 is preferably continuous, as can be seen in particular in Figure 3, and it includes support feet 39, configured so as to be able to rest on the upper edge of the peripheral side wall 31 of the receptacle located directly below it in the reactor 31, in the operating position of the receptacles. To this end, as shown in Figure 4, the feet 39 preferably have a substantially perpendicular return 391 directed towards the central axis 281 of the receptacle 28, so as to provide a better bearing surface for the latter.

[0115] The discontinuous peripheral side wall 31 of the receptacles 28 can otherwise be structured with, but not limited to: a mesh, an openwork fabric, a composite made of braided fibers also openwork, etc. Preferably, the discontinuous peripheral side wall 31 is formed so as to minimize obstruction to gases and heat.

[0116] The bottom wall 30 of the receptacles 28 can also be discontinuous. Preferably, when the bottom wall 30 is discontinuous, it is formed with a sufficiently tight mesh to prevent any of the bio-based material 29 from falling through the mesh.

[0117] In preferred embodiments, and as illustrated in Figure 2, the cross-section of the receptacle 28 is circular in shape.

[0118] The receptacles 28 may have an upper wall, parallel to the bottom wall 30, delimiting them at their opposite upper end; such an upper wall may be continuous or discontinuous. Preferably, it is without such a wall.

[0119] The reactor 21 may include a rigid rod 43, visible in Figure 1, extending from the upper end portion 24 to the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21, along the longitudinal axis 221, preferably at the center of the reactor. Such a rod 43 advantageously guides the movement of the receptacles 28 within the reactor, in particular ensuring their centering to prevent any risk of blockage, which could be due to accidental oblique positioning within the reactor. The rod 43 can be held in place within the reactor 21 by any mechanical system known to those skilled in the art. An example of such a mechanical means is described in detail later in this document.

[0120] In alternative embodiments of the invention, not illustrated in the figures, the reactor 21 comprises, on the inner face of the peripheral side wall 22, one or more longitudinal slides extending from the upper end part 24 to the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21 parallel to the longitudinal axis 221, configured to allow the receptacles 28 to be inserted therein by one or more cooperating longitudinal projections then present on the outer face of the peripheral side wall 31 of the receptacles 28, and to slide along these slides from the upper end part 24 to the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21.

[0121] In alternative embodiments of the invention, not illustrated in the figures, the receptacles 28 comprise, on the external face of their peripheral side wall 31, one or more longitudinal slides designed to interact with one or more longitudinal projections present on the internal face of the peripheral side wall of the reactor 21, these projections extending from the upper end part 24 to the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21 along the longitudinal axis 221, and advantageously allowing the guidance of the receptacles 28 over the entire height of the reactor 21.

[0122] Several of the alternative embodiments mentioned above, including a rod 43 or a cooperative protrusion / slide system, can be implemented jointly in reactor 21.

[0123] As illustrated in Figures 2, 3, and 4, in embodiments of the device in which the reactor 21 contains a rod 43 for guiding the receptacles 28, the bottom wall 30 of each receptacle has a through-hole 45 configured so that the rod 43 can be inserted into it and thus pass through the bottom wall 30, substantially perpendicular to it. The position of the opening 45 in the receptacle 28 can be centered or off-center with respect to the geometric center of the bottom wall 30. Figures 2, 3, and 4 illustrate a preferred example of a receptacle 28 in which the opening 45 is positioned at the center of the bottom wall 30.

[0124] The receptacles 28 further preferably include a tubular guide 46 extending from the bottom wall 30, around the opening 45 and substantially perpendicular to the bottom wall 30. This tubular guide 46 is configured so that the rod 43 can be inserted into it when the receptacle 28 is in its operating position in the reactor 21, so as to improve control of the movement of the receptacle 28 in the latter.

[0125] Figure 4 illustrates a receptacle 28 in which this tubular guide 46 extends from the bottom wall 30 to substantially the upper limit of the peripheral side wall 31 of the receptacle 28.

[0126] In preferred embodiments of the invention, the reactor 21 and the receptacles 28 are formed of stainless steel, but they may also be made of any material compatible with high temperatures and providing adequate durability for the operational context of implementation of the pyrolysis device 20. The reactor 21 and the receptacles 28 may be made of, but not limited to: stainless steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, refractory steel, ceramic, composite material, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, etc.

[0127] In embodiments of the invention, not illustrated in the figures, each receptacle 28 includes at least one deflector, located on the external face of its peripheral side wall, allowing the movement of gases coming into contact with the receptacle to be directed towards the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21 and / or towards the interior of the receptacle 28.

[0128] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes, as illustrated in Figure 1, an inlet airlock 32 communicating via a first window 33 with the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21, this inlet airlock 32 and this first window 33 being configured to allow the successive loading of receptacles 28 from the inlet airlock 32 into the reactor 21, through the first window 33, this in the operating position of the receptacles.

[0129] The inlet airlock 32 can be a modular compartment reversibly attached to the reactor 21, or it can be formed as a single unit with the reactor 21. It can be positioned above the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21, as illustrated in Figure 1, the first window 33 then being arranged at the level of the upper edge of the reactor, so that the loading of the receptacle 28 into the reactor 21 is carried out in the vertical direction (i.e., along the longitudinal axis 221 in the operating position of the reactor in which this longitudinal axis 221 is substantially vertical).

[0130] The inlet airlock 32 can alternatively be positioned laterally with respect to the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21, so that the loading of the receptacle 28 into the reactor 21 is carried out in a horizontal direction, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 221, the first window 33 then being provided in the peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 28, at the level of the upper end part 24.

[0131] The entrance vestibule 32 is equipped with an entrance door 321 allowing the introduction of a receptacle 28 into its interior.

[0132] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes, as illustrated in Figure 1, a first partition 34 that can be actuated between a closed position in which it closes the first window 33 and an open position in which it releases said first window 33. In Figure 1, this first partition 34 is illustrated by a dashed line, it being understood that it is in fact preferably a solid partition, closing the first window 33, preferably in a hermetic manner.

[0133] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes means for actuation of the first partition 34 between the closed position and the open position, not shown in the figures.

[0134] These actuation means can be of any type, including but not limited to: manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, magnetic, etc. For example, they can be manual and may include a handle positioned in line with the first partition 34. Alternatively, it may be an automatic system controlled by a programmable control module, allowing for the automation of the opening and closing of the first partition 34.

[0135] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes, as illustrated in Figure 1, an exit airlock 36 communicating via a second window 37 with the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21, this exit airlock 36 and this second window 37 being configured to allow the successive unloading of receptacles 28 from the reactor 21 into the exit airlock 36, through the second window 37.

[0136] The exit airlock 36 can be a modular compartment reversibly attached to the reactor 21, or it can be formed as a single unit with the reactor 21. It can be positioned below the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21, as illustrated in Figure 1, the second window 37 then being arranged at the level of the lower edge of the reactor, so that the discharge of the receptacle 28 out of the reactor 21 is carried out in the vertical direction (i.e., along the longitudinal axis 221 in the operating position of the reactor in which this longitudinal axis 221 is substantially vertical).

[0137] The exit airlock 332 can alternatively be positioned laterally with respect to the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21, so that the discharge of the receptacle 28 out of the reactor 21 is carried out in a horizontal direction, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 221, the second window 37 then being provided in the peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 28, at the level of the lower end part 25.

[0138] The exit airlock 36 is equipped with an exit door 361 allowing the extraction of a receptacle 28 from its interior.

[0139] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes, as illustrated in Figure 1, a second partition 38 that can be actuated between a closed position in which it seals the second window 37 and an open position in which it releases said second window 37. In Figure 1, this first second partition 38 is illustrated by a dashed line, it being understood that it is in fact preferably a solid partition, closing the second window 37, preferably in a hermetic manner.

[0140] The pyrolysis device 20 also includes means for actuation of the second partition 38 between the closed position and the open position, not shown in the figures.

[0141] These actuation means can be of any type, including but not limited to: manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, magnetic, etc. For example, they can be manual and may include a handle positioned in line with the second partition 38. Alternatively, it may be an automatic system controlled by a programmable control module, allowing for the automation of the opening and closing of the second partition 38.

[0142] Preferably, the actuation means of the first partition 34 and the actuation means of the second partition 38 are of the same type.

[0143] The entry airlock 32 and the exit airlock 36 are both of sufficient dimensions to be able to contain a receptacle 28 in its operating position.

[0144] In embodiments of the device in which the reactor 21 contains a rod 43 for guiding the receptacles 28, the mechanical means for holding the latter in place in the reactor 21 can for example consist of the first partition 34 and the second partition 38. These partitions are then formed as described below and illustrated in Figure 5 for the particular example of the first partition 34, the second partition 38 being formed in a similar way.

[0145] More precisely, as illustrated in Figure 5, the first partition 34 can be formed from two solid-walled half-partitions 341, 342. These two half-partitions are complementary and, when joined, form the first partition 34 of the desired shape, here, for example, a circular shape. For clarity, these two half-partitions 341, 342 are shown slightly apart in Figure 5. Each of these half-partitions 341, 342 includes, at their respective opposite edges, a recess 343, 344. These recesses are formed such that when the two half-partitions 341, 342 are joined to form the first partition 34, they together form an opening whose shape coincides with the external cross-section of the rod 43, preferably substantially at the center of the first partition 34 thus formed.The two half-partitions 341, 342 are mounted in the reactor in such a way that they can move away from each other, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 221 (this axis being perpendicular to the plane of figure 5), until they reach the opening position of the first partition 34, freeing the window 33, and that they can move closer together, until they come into contact with each other in the closing position of the first partition 34, sealing the window 33. They then grip the rod 43, holding it securely in position.

[0146] A similar configuration is planned for the second partition 38.

[0147] This advantageously ensures that the rod 43 is permanently held in place, either by the first partition 34, or by the second partition 38, or by both simultaneously, depending on the current stage of the process implementing the device.

[0148] In embodiments of the invention in which the inlet airlock 32 is positioned laterally relative to the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21 and / or the outlet airlock 36 is positioned laterally relative to the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21, the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21 and / or the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21 may include the rod 43. The rod 43 is permanently held in place either by the first partition 34, or by the second partition 38, or by both simultaneously, depending on the current step of the process implementing the device. Each receptacle 28 is configured, in shape and dimensions, to be able to be inserted into said upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21, partially surrounding the rod 43.In one embodiment (not shown in the figures), the receptacle 28 has, along its entire height, a slot extending from the discontinuous peripheral side wall 31 to the tubular guide 46, with a dimension at least equal to the cross-section of the rod 43. Thus, the receptacle is introduced into the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21 with its slot directed towards the rod 43 so that the receptacle 28 advances into the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21 until the tubular guide 48 of the receptacle 28 reaches the rod 43.

[0149] In other embodiments of the invention (not shown in the figures) in which the inlet airlock 32 is positioned laterally relative to the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21 and / or the outlet airlock 36 is positioned laterally relative to the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21, the rod 43 can be vertically movable. The rod extends into the reactor and either wholly or partly into the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21 or wholly or partly into the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21. The rod 43 is permanently held in place either by the first partition 34, or by the second partition 38, or by both simultaneously, depending on the current stage of the process implementing the device. The first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are actuated to open slightly but sufficiently to allow the vertical movement of the rod 43.The rod 43 can move vertically downwards by gravity. The rod 43 can move vertically upwards by means of a piston cylinder, for example a hydraulic cylinder, arranged for example vertically under the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21.

[0150] In one embodiment, the rod 43 may be hollow, at a lower end of the rod 43, and the piston of the cylinder may include an end configured to connect, at the lower end of the rod 43, inside the rod 43.

[0151] In embodiments of the invention, illustrated in Figure 1, when the outlet airlock 36 is positioned below the lower end portion 25 of the reactor 21, the pyrolysis device 20 according to the invention comprises, inside the reactor 21, first retractable pads 70 arranged on the peripheral side wall 22 of said reactor 21. The first pads 70 are positioned and dimensioned so that:

[0152] - when in the deployed position, the bottom wall 30 of the receptacle 28 located just above the lowest receptacle in the stack of receptacles in the reactor, rests on said first pads,

[0153] - when they are in retracted position, the bottom wall 30 of the receptacle 28 located just above the lowest receptacle in the stack of receptacles in the reactor, no longer rests on said first pads and said receptacle can move in the reactor by gravity.

[0154] When the first pads 70 are in the deployed position, the receptacle 28 located just above the lowest receptacle 28 in the stack of receptacles may or may not rest, via its support feet 39, on the lowest receptacle 28 in the stack of receptacles.

[0155] The pyrolysis device 20 includes, inside the reactor 21, retractable second pads 71 ​​arranged on the peripheral side wall 22 of said reactor 21, near the second partition 38. The second pads 71 ​​are positioned and dimensioned so that:

[0156] - when they are in the deployed position, the bottom wall 30 of the lowest receptacle 28 in the stack of receptacles in the reactor rests on said second pads, above the second partition 38; when they are in the retracted position, the bottom wall 30 of the receptacle 28 located just above the lowest receptacle in the stack of receptacles in the reactor no longer rests on said second pads and said receptacle can move, by gravity, towards the exit airlock 36, when the second partition 38 is open.

[0157] In embodiments of the invention (not illustrated in the figures), when the outlet airlock 36 is positioned laterally to the lower end part 25 of the reactor 21, and the second window 37 is provided in the peripheral side wall 22 of the reactor 28, the pyrolysis device 20 comprises, inside the reactor 21, only the first retractable pads 70 arranged on the peripheral side wall 22 of said reactor 21. The first pads 70 are positioned and dimensioned so that the bottom wall 30 of the receptacle 28 located just above the lowest receptacle of the stack of receptacles in the reactor, rests on said first pads.

[0158] The device according to the invention may further include means for sealing the entry airlock 22 and the exit airlock 36 against the environment external to the device. These means may be supported by the first partition 34 and the second partition 38. In this case, they may consist of sealing gaskets covering the opposite edges of the half-partitions that constitute them. They may also, or otherwise, be provided at the entry door 321 and / or the exit door 361.

[0159] An example of successive steps in a pyrolysis process according to the invention, implemented continuously for the conversion of a bio-based material into solid carbonaceous product(s), using a device according to the invention as described above, is shown in Figure 6 for a particular receptacle 38. For clarity, the device shown is of the type without a rod 43. The steps described below can be easily adapted by those skilled in the art to a device equipped with such a rod. This process comprises, continuously throughout all its steps, the injection, in the direction indicated at 60 in the figure, of one or more oxygen-free pyrolysis gases into the reactor 21 via the first orifice 26, and the collection, in the direction indicated at 61 in the figure, of gases from the reactor 21 via said second orifice 27.Each pyrolysis gas can be of any conventional type, chemically inert with respect to the bio-based material to be pyrolyzed. Its temperature varies according to the nature of the latter, for example between 200°C and 1000°C. Inside the reactor, the pyrolysis gas rises in an upward flow from the first orifice 26 to the second orifice 27, as illustrated in point 65 of the figure.

[0160] The process preferably includes an initial step, not shown in the figure, of filling receptacles 28 with the bio-based material 29 to be pyrolyzed.

[0161] It also preferably includes initially the successive introduction of a plurality of receptacles 28, preferably loaded with thermally inert product(s), into the reactor 21, in the operating position, via the inlet airlock 32, so as to completely fill the latter with a stack of receptacles.

[0162] The process then includes the repetition of a cycle of steps, illustrated in Figure 6 for a particular receptacle 28 containing bio-based material to be pyrolyzed 29.

[0163] In the initial configuration of the device shown in a / in the figure, the first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are in the closed position, preferably a sealed position. A receptacle 28 has been discharged from the reactor 21. The receptacles 28 still contained within the reactor have moved down to the second partition 38, creating a void 62 in the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21, large enough to receive a receptacle 28. The first supports 70 are in the retracted position so that the receptacle 28 located directly above the lowest receptacle 28 in the stack of receptacles rests, via its support feet 39, on the lowest receptacle 28 in the stack of receptacles. The second supports 71 are in the deployed position to retain the stack of receptacles above the second partition.

[0164] A receptacle 28, containing bio-based material 29, was introduced, through the entrance door 321, into the entrance airlock 32.

[0165] After the entrance door 321 is closed, the first partition 34 is actuated to its open position, as shown in b / of the figure, so as to release the first window 33. The receptacle 28 located in the entrance airlock 32 then descends by its own weight into the reactor 21, in the direction indicated in 63 of the figure, in its operational position. The first partition 34 is then actuated to its closed position.

[0166] Due to the successive unloading of receptacles from the reactor (each unloading of a receptacle from the lower end of the reactor being followed by the loading of another receptacle into the upper end of the reactor), the particular receptacle 28 whose treatment is described here progresses, inside the reactor 21, towards the second partition 38, as shown in 64 c / of the figure. During its passage through the reactor 21, the receptacle 28, and the bio-based material 29 it contains, come into contact with the upward flow 65 of pyrolysis gas. This contact causes the pyrolysis of the bio-based material 29 as it progresses through the reactor 21.

[0167] The receptacle 28 continues its journey through the reactor 21 until it reaches the lower end section 25, becoming the lowest receptacle in the stack of receptacles contained therein. At this stage, the material 291 it contains is the solid product of the pyrolysis of the initial bio-based material 29. The process then includes a step of unloading this receptacle into the exit airlock, as illustrated in d / in the figure. For this purpose, the first pads 70 are moved from the retracted position to the deployed position. The second partition 38 is actuated to open, so as to release the second window 37. The second pads 71 ​​are then moved from the deployed position to the retracted position. The receptacle 28 descends, under the effect of its weight, through this second window 37, in the direction indicated in 66, to the exit airlock 36.The stack of receptacles located above it in the reactor does not descend under the effect of its weight, due to the deployed position of the first pads 70. Thus only the lowest receptacle 28 of the stack of receptacles descends to the exit airlock 36.

[0168] The second partition 38 is then actuated to close, to obtain the configuration illustrated in e / on the figure, in which the reactor is again closed at the level of the first window 33 and the second window 37, and the receptacle 28 is located in the exit airlock 36. The second pads 71 ​​are moved from the retracted position to the deployed position and the first pads 70 are moved from the deployed position to the retracted position, so that the stack of receptacles remaining in the reactor descends under the effect of its weight, in the direction indicated in 67. A new empty space 62 of sufficient size to receive a new receptacle has been created in the upper end part 24 of the reactor 21.

[0169] The receptacle 28 is finally extracted from the exit airlock 36 through the exit door 361 which has been opened for this purpose, as indicated in 68. It contains the solid product of pyrolysis 291, formed of carbon product(s).

[0170] The entire sequence of steps described above is repeated for each new receptacle 28 containing bio-based material to be pyrolyzed, as many times as necessary. In particular embodiments where the rod 43 is vertically movable, prior to loading a receptacle into the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21, the rod is moved downwards so that the upper end portion 24 of the reactor 21 does not include said rod. The first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are actuated to open slightly but sufficiently to allow the downward vertical movement of the rod 43 by gravity. Then the first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are actuated to close completely to hold the rod 43 in position and allow the loading operation.Prior to unloading a receptacle in the lower end section 25 of the reactor 21, the rod is moved upwards so that the lower end section 25 of the reactor 21 does not contain said rod. The first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are actuated to open slightly but sufficiently to allow the vertical movement of the rod 43 upwards by means of the piston cylinder. Then the first partition 34 and the second partition 38 are actuated to close completely to hold the rod 43 in position. The piston cylinder then returns to its original position to release the lower end section 25 of the reactor 21 in its initial position and thus allow the unloading operation.This process is simple to implement, requires little energy, as the movement of the receptacles is primarily driven by gravity, and is particularly well-suited to the pyrolysis of bio-based materials in the form of small and / or low-density particles. Indeed, the bio-based material is constantly confined to controlled areas of the device, within the receptacles. Furthermore, the contact of this material with the hot pyrolysis gas is maximized, thus increasing the pyrolysis efficiency.

[0171] Figure 7 illustrates a particular embodiment of a device according to the invention comprising additional modules external to reactor 21.

[0172] As illustrated in this figure, the second orifice 27 can be connected to a combustion chamber 47 external to the reactor.

[0173] This combustion chamber 47 is conventional in itself and is designed and operated to burn the gases from reactor 21 and redirect the products from the combustion of these gases back to it.

[0174] The second orifice 27 can also be connected to a capacitor 50 for the recovery of oil(s) possibly contained in the gas collected from reactor 21.

[0175] This condenser 50 is conventional in itself. It is designed and operated to cool and condense at least a fraction of the oils present as vapor in the gases exiting the reactor through the second orifice 27.

[0176] Figure 7 illustrates an example of a circuit for circulating gases from reactor 21 within such a device. The combustion chamber 47 and the condenser 50 are connected to the second port 27 of reactor 21 by a first conduit 48, in which the gases flow in the direction shown in 483 in the figure. In this example, the first conduit 48 divides into two sub-conduits: a first sub-conduit 481 connected to the combustion chamber 47 and a second sub-conduit 482 connected to the condenser 50. The circuit further includes a second conduit 471 connecting to the outlet of the combustion chamber 47, in which the gaseous combustion product(s) from it are circulated, in the direction 472, to the first port 26 of reactor 21, through which they are injected into the reactor.These combustion products, having a high temperature, participate advantageously in the pyrolysis occurring in reactor 21, thereby limiting the external energy requirements of this pyrolysis.

[0177] Condenser 50 condenses any pyrolysis oils that may be present in gaseous form in the gases from reactor 21. These condensed oils are collected, for example, at a first outlet 51 of the condenser and can be advantageously utilized. Uncondensed gaseous substances can be extracted from condenser 50, as illustrated in 52 of the figure. They can, for example, be directed to a second combustion chamber 53 to recover their thermal energy, as illustrated in 54 of the figure.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Pyrolysis device (20) suitable for continuous operation, for the conversion by pyrolysis of a bio-based material (29) into solid carbon product(s) (291), comprising: - a reactor (21) comprising a peripheral side wall (22) extending along a longitudinal axis (221), and comprising a central part (23) situated between an upper end part (24) and a lower end part (25), - a first orifice (26) for the injection of pyrolysis gas into said reactor (21), said first orifice (26) being disposed in said lower end part (25) of said reactor (21) or in a central part (40) of said reactor (21), - a second orifice (27) for collecting gas from said reactor (21), said second orifice (27) being disposed in said upper end part (24) of said reactor (21), - a plurality of stackable receptacles (28) intended to contain said bio-based material (29), each of said receptacles (28) having a bottom wall (30) and a discontinuous peripheral side wall (31) and each of said receptacles being configured to be able to be introduced into said reactor (21) and to move within it from said upper end part (24) to said lower end part (25), in a so-called operating position in which said bottom wall (30) is opposite said lower end part (25) of said reactor (21), - an entry airlock (32) communicating via a first window (33) with said upper end part (24) of said reactor (21), said entry airlock (32) and said first window (33) being configured to allow the successive loading of said receptacles (28) from said entry airlock (32) into said reactor (21), in said operating position, - a first partition (34) that can be actuated between a closed position in which it blocks said first window (33) and an open position in which it releases said first window (33), - means for actuating said first partition (34) between said closed position and said open position, - an exit airlock (36) communicating via a second window (37) with said lower end part (25) of said reactor (21), said exit airlock (36) and said second window (37) being configured to allow the successive unloading of said receptacles (28) of said reactor (21) into said exit airlock (36), - a second partition (38) that can be actuated between a closed position in which it blocks said second window (37) and an open position in which it releases said second window (37), - and means for actuation of said second partition (38) between said closed position and said open position, the pyrolysis device (20) being characterized in that, when the receptacles (28) are in the reactor, said receptacles are stacked one on top of the other and are configured to move there, by gravity, from the upper end part (24) to the lower end part (25) of said reactor.

2. Pyrolysis device according to claim 1, wherein said reactor (21) contains a rod (43) extending from said upper end portion (24) to said lower end portion (25) along said longitudinal axis (221), and wherein said bottom wall (30) of each of said receptacles (28) is pierced by a through opening (45), said rod (43) and said opening (45) being configured such that said rod (43) can be inserted into said opening (45) when said receptacles (28) are in said reactor (21) in said operating position.

3. Pyrolysis device according to claim 2, wherein said opening (45) is centrally positioned in said bottom wall (30) of said receptacles (28).

4. Pyrolysis device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein each of said receptacles (28) comprises a tubular guide (46) extending in said receptacle (28) from said bottom wall (30), around said opening (45), and perpendicular to said bottom wall (30), said tubular guide (46) being configured to be able to slide around said rod (43) in said operating position of the receptacle (28) in said reactor (21).

5. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said inlet airlock (32) and / or said outlet airlock (36) are modular compartments joined together to said reactor (21) in a reversible manner.

6. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said second orifice (27) of the reactor (21) is connected to an inlet of a gas combustion chamber (47) positioned outside said reactor (21), said gas combustion chamber (47) being itself connected at the outlet to said first orifice (26) of the reactor (21).

7. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said second orifice (27) of the reactor (21) is connected to a condenser (50) for the recovery of oil(s) contained in the gas collected from the reactor (21).

8. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said discontinuous peripheral side wall (31) of said receptacles (28) comprises at least one mesh-formed area.

9. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a plurality of said receptacles (28) are arranged in said reactor (21), each in said operating position.

10. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the peripheral side wall (22) of said reactor (21) is at least partially surrounded by a sheath of insulating material.

11. Pyrolysis device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said reactor (21) has at least one third orifice (35) for the entry of gas into said reactor (21), preferably positioned in said lower end part (25) of said reactor (21), for carrying out an additional treatment to said pyrolysis.

12. A continuous pyrolysis process for the pyrolytic conversion of a bio-based material (29) into solid carbonaceous product(s) (291), characterized in that it employs a device (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and in that it comprises the following steps: a) the injection (60) of a pyrolysis gas into said reactor (21) through said first orifice (26), and the collection (61) of gas from said reactor (21) through said second orifice (27), said collection and said injection being carried out continuously; b) the filling of a plurality of said receptacles (28) with said material bio-based (29), c / the iteration of a cycle of steps comprising a phase of unloading one of said receptacles (28) out of said reactor (21) and then a phase of loading another of said receptacles (28) containing the bio-based material (29) into said reactor (21), said unloading phase comprising the following sub-steps: - the actuation of said second partition (38) in said open position, - the unloading (66) of said receptacle (28) from the lower end part (25) of said reactor (21) into said exit airlock (36), - the actuation of said second partition (38) in said closed position, - and the evacuation (68) of said receptacle (28) out of said exit airlock (36), and said loading phase comprising the following sub-steps: - the introduction of said other of said receptacles (28) containing said bio-based material (29) into said entry airlock (32), in a configuration in which said first partition (34) is in said closed position, - the actuation of said first partition (34) in said open position, - the loading (63) of said receptacle (28) into said upper end part (24) of said reactor (21) from said inlet airlock (32), - and the actuation of said first partition (34) in said closed position, said receptacles (28) progressing in said reactor (21) from said upper end part (24) to said lower end part (25) of said reactor (21) by the effect of gravity.

13. Pyrolysis process according to claim 12, wherein said pyrolysis gas is introduced into said reactor (21), through said first orifice (26), at a temperature between 200°C and 1000°C.

14. Pyrolysis method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein said pyrolysis device (20) is as defined in claim 6, and said method comprises: - the entrainment of at least a fraction of the gas collected from said reactor (21) through said second orifice (27) to said combustion chamber (47), - the combustion of said gas fraction in said combustion chamber - and the conveying of the combustion product(s) thus obtained to said first orifice (26), and their injection into said reactor (21) through said first orifice (26).

15. Pyrolysis process according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein said pyrolysis device (20) is as defined in claim 7, and wherein at least a fraction of the gas collected from said reactor (21) through said second orifice (27) is directed to said condenser (50) for the recovery of oil(s) contained in said gas.

Images