Pyrolytic energy performance and byproducts of Ganoderma lucidum: their multi-objective optimization

Fossil fuels-related environmental issues, such as global climate change and soil and water acidification, are driving countries to develop biomass energy sources. As a second-generation biofuel with a significant spatiotemporal availability for global consumption, Ganoderma lucidum (GL) calls for the characterization and multi-objective optimization of its pyrolytic performance and byproducts. The GL pyrolysis was divided into three stages, with the main stage occurring between 205–630 °C. The activation energy for the main stage was estimated at 221.23kJ/mol and 222.83kJ/mol according to the FWO and KAS methods, respectively. The primary volatile products of the GL pyrolysis between 200–600 °C included H2O, CH4, CO2, CO, C=O, C-O(H), C=C, and NH3. The multi-objective optimization indicated that the GL pyrolysis between 650–750oC jointly led to maximum energy yield and minimum gas emission. Biochar produced from GL (GLB) between 400–600 °C enhanced its aromaticity and stabilized the functional groups in the carbon structure. GLB obtained exhibited an increased number of porous structures and decreased aromaticity. These results provide a theoretical and practical basis for enhancing and volarizing the comprehensive circularity of GL biomass. [Display omitted] •The pyrolysis behavior of GL was characterized through thermogravimetric analysis.•The activation energy for the main stage was based on the FWO and KAS methods.•The gaseous products and emission patterns were identified and quantified.•The production and properties of GL-derived biochar were explored.•A multi-objective optimization of energy yield and gas emissions was employed.