The aim of the present work was to improve the C:O ratio in biomass by preserving the lignin macrostructure of lignocellulosic feed. The intention of liquid phase pyrolysis is to liquefy biomass and prepare biomass for further upgrading steps like hydrogenation and deoxygenation. Pyrolysis was carried out in a non-aqueous liquid phase heat carrier. The process was carried out in a semi-batch reaction vessel under isothermal conditions at T = 350 degrees C, supported by a quench to stop reactions instantaneously in order to observe formation of solid intermediates. This pyrolysis system enables the observation of liquid and solid product formation. Transformation of biomass into biochar was analyzed by infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Stable lignin structure throughout the whole transformation was confirmed. It was shown that the lignin frame in wood remains without substantial loss, while the major amount of carbohydrates is pyrolyzed during liquid phase pyrolysis at T = 350 degrees C. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.