We have developed a new technique for investigating reactions that are important during pyrolysis and combustion. Molecules of interest are pulsed through a small tubular fimace and the products analyzed using photoionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometty (TOFMS) and matrix isolation Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The short residence times (1G100 ps) and high temperatures (up to 1800K) of these reactors make them ideal for measuring the initial products during thermal reactions since important reaction intermediates can be identified and quantified. We have used these reactors to study the pyrolysis of compounds of relevance to the pyrolysis and combustion of biomass. We have trapped and measured reactive intermediates as well as stable products. The combination of these two analytical techniques provides a powerful and unique method for understanding the thermal chemistry of biopolymers. .
