Fast pyrolysis of poplar wood followed with catalytic cracking of the pyrolysis vapors was performed using analytical pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). The catalysts applied in this study were nano MgO, CaO, TiO₂, Fe₂O₃, NiO and ZnO. These catalysts displayed different catalytic capabilities towards the pyrolytic products. The catalysis by CaO significantly reduced the levels of phenols and anhydrosugars, and eliminated the acids, while it increased the formation of cyclopentanones, hydrocarbons and several light compounds. ZnO was a mild catalyst, as it only slightly altered the pyrolytic products. The other four catalysts all decreased the linear aldehydes dramatically, while the increased the ketones and cyclopentanones. They also reduced the anhydrosugars, except for NiO. Moreover, the catalysis by Fe₂O₃ resulted in the formation of various hydrocarbons. However, none of these catalysts except CaO were able to greatly reduce the acids.

Oil produced by the pyrolysis of biomass and co-pyrolysis of biomass with waste synthetic polymers has significant potential as a substitute for fossil fuels. However, the relatively poor properties found in pyrolysis oil—such as high oxygen content, low caloric value, and physicochemical instability—hampers its practical utilization as a commercial petroleum fuel replacement or additive. This review focuses on pyrolysis catalyst design, impact of using real waste feedstocks, catalyst deactivation and regeneration, and optimization of product distributions to support the production of high value-added products. Co-pyrolysis of two or more feedstock materials is shown to increase oil yield, caloric value, and aromatic hydrocarbon content. In addition, the co-pyrolysis of biomass and polymer waste can contribute to a reduction in production costs, expand waste disposal options, and reduce environmental impacts. Several promising options for catalytic pyrolysis to become industrially viable are also discussed.