Generation of nitrogen-containing compounds by cellulose nitrogen-rich pyrolysis under CO2/N2 atmosphere: Influence mechanism of different catalysts

This study investigates nitrogen-rich catalytic pyrolysis of cellulose in an N 2 /CO 2 atmosphere, focusing on the synergistic effects of catalysts and CO 2 on bio-oil composition. The results show that catalyst acidity governs product selectivity, markedly enhancing high-value nitrogen-containing compounds while suppressing carbonyl species. Among the catalysts tested, Al-MCM-41 exhibited the strongest promotion of nitrogen-containing compounds, increasing their relative content from 22.24% (without catalyst) to 88.83%. HZSM-5, Mo 2 C, and γ-Al 2 O 3 favored the formation of furans, esters, and sugars, whereas CO 2 facilitated biomass decomposition and altered product distribution. In addition, catalysts significantly regulated nitrogen heterocycles, increasing pyridine, pyrrole, and nitrile contents. Biochars obtained with HZSM-5 and Al-MCM-41 showed abundant oxygen-containing functional groups, indicating improved pore structure development. These findings demonstrate an effective catalytic strategy for the selective conversion of biomass into high-value nitrogen compounds.