Thermodynamical Valorization of Palm Oil Biomass: A Review of Pyrolysis, Gasification, and Biochar Production Pathways

This journal discusses the utilization of oil palm biomass, such as empty fruit bunches, palm shells, mesocarp fibers, and fronds, as value-added materials to support renewable energy and more efficient resource management. The study aims to examine thermochemical valorization pathways, particularly pyrolysis, gasification, and biochar production, in terms of energy recovery, material utilization, and environmental sustainability. Using the PRISMA-based Systematic Literature Review method, the research filtered Scopus articles from the 2019–2025 period, resulting in 32 studies for analysis. The findings indicate that feedstock composition, moisture content, particle size, reactor type, temperature, residence time, and catalysts significantly affect conversion efficiency. Pyrolysis is more suitable for producing bio-oil and charcoal, gasification for syngas, while biochar has the potential to support carbon sequestration and soil improvement. The implication is that the integration of hybrid technologies can strengthen the circular economy of palm oil and the decarbonization of the industry.