This study investigates the catalytic pyrolysis of Padina pavonica using Amberlyst-15 and ZSM-5 catalysts to optimize bio-oil yield and quality. The hypothesis suggests that these catalysts enhance bio-oil production via deoxygenation and selective cracking. Using response surface methodology and kinetic analysis

the effects of catalyst loading

temperature

and reaction time were evaluated. Amberlyst-15 at 2% loading produced the highest bio-oil yield of 49.8%

compared with 18.23% from non-catalytic pyrolysis. ZSM-5 achieved 48.54% bio-oil yield

with a higher gas yield (22.6%) and hydrocarbon yield of 40.8%. Amberlyst-15 yielded up to 49.8% aromatic hydrocarbons. While both catalysts increased solid residue

ZSM-5 produced more char. Kinetic analysis showed Amberlyst-15 exhibited superior catalytic activity at elevated temperatures

with higher reaction rate constants and activation energy. These findings optimize catalytic pyrolysis for macroalgae-based biofuel production

maximizing bio-oil yield and hydrocarbon content for large-scale applications.