A simple protocol for quantitative analysis of bio-oils through GC-MS

A new and simple protocol for quantitative analysis of bio-oils using GC-MS is suggested. Compounds were identified via their MS spectra, than unavailable response factors (RRFs) were calculated with respect to diphenyl as internal standard, using a modified method previously suggested for GC-FID. This new protocol was applied to the characterization of bio-oils obtained from pyrolysis of wood of different source or using different pyrolysis procedure. This protocol let to evaluate the yield of products from poplar pyrolysis (among 50 and 99 %) while a reduced amount of them was identified from pyrolysis of cellulose (among 46 and 58 %). The main product was always acetic acid but it was formed in a very large yield from poplar while lower yield was reached from cellulose.