The low heating rate studies were carried out using a conventional thermogravimetric system (Setaram Simultaneous TGA/DTA unit). In this report, recent results of research concerned with fundamental studies of the high temperature solid phase decomposition of zinc sulfate at low and high heating rates are presented. Several experiments using a Setaram more » Differential Scanning Calorimeter were preformed in order to investigate the mechanisms of ZnSO/sub 4/ decomposition under conditions of low heating rates. Finally, an extensive literature search was carried out to compile the currently available data regarding decomposition of zinc sulfate. The pyrolysis reactors employed under continuous radiant decomposition conditions performed well and provided sirup yields as high as 55% (by weight) using crushed corn cob particles (1000 > dp > 850. The reactors were employed at the focus of the arc image furnace under conditions of severe radiant energy transfer (with peak flux of about 1 KW/cm/sup 2/). Considerable progress was made in the development of novel spouted/fluidized bed flash pyrolysis reactors which function as solar receivers. The parameters governing the design and operation of this solar furnace are described in detail.

The solar furnace provides an intense light beam with a peak flux density as high as 1000 W/cm/sup 2/ (or 10,000 suns) at the focus of the concentrator. The solar simulator was currently modified and upgraded to incorporate a 30 KW water-cooled, xenon compact arc lamp with all the associated electrical, optical and cooling systems. To support ongoing research activities of the Renewable Resources Research Laboratory (R/sup 3/L), a double paraboloid downward facing beam arc image furnace was designed and fabricated in Princeton.

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