Preface

Reactivity is a vast realm with many specific sub-fields. Among them, reactivity under high-temperature conditions is one of the most attractive due to the complex chemical routes active in the high-temperature regime. Pyrolysis is the most studied high-temperature conversion procedure. It breaks down polymeric macromolecules into compounds with low molecular weight in a free-oxygen atmosphere [1]. Pyrolytic treatment leads to three classes of products: gas, liquid, and carbonaceous residue. Several technologies have been developed to efficiently convert polymeric structures into useful products. Some of these technologies include heating technology [2], apparatus design [3–6], and the use of catalysts [7–9]. Furthermore, a pyrolytic approach can be used for the inorganic synthesis of chemical species produced by the thermal degradation of template precursors.

The flexibility of the pyrolytic process has contributed to its spread across several research and industrial projects. Pyrolytic conversions have potential applications in producing advanced materials and sustainable fuels. Furthermore, pyrolysis of waste streams has attracted attention worldwide as a possible solution to convert waste materials into eco-friendly, usable materials. The assembling of multi-product platforms built around pyrolysis units has become a reality in the world of next-generation biorefineries.

This book paints a complete and multidisciplinary picture of the many possible applications of pyrolysis. Chapters report on the use of pyrolytic methods for the production of fuels, chemicals, and nanostructured materials for high-tech applications and to convert waste streams (both biomass and plastics) into value-added products. The book provides several key lab and field examples to further understanding of the topic. It also discusses whether pyrolysis processes are convenient and economically sound considering both more traditional and unconventional approaches. The book is a useful resource for students, researchers, company advisors, and other interested readers.

> **Mattia Bartoli** Center for Sustainable Future Technologies (CSFT), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Torino, Italy

> > **Dr. Mauro Giorcelli** Polytechnic University of Turin, Torino, Italy
