CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOCHAR PRODUCED FROM HERBACEOUS PLANTS AS ALTERNATIVE SOURCE FOR DOMESTIC COOKING
Fuels are vital for energy generation, with fossil fuels posing environmental threats due to their emissions. Non-fossil fuels, such as those derived from biomass, offer sustainable alternatives. However, the depletion of wood fuel in regions like Nigeria necessitates exploring alternative sources like biochar. Depletion of wood fuel resources in Nigeria leads to reliance on costly alternatives like liquefied natural gas (LPG) and kerosene, with significant environmental impacts. This study aims to explore herbaceous biomass as a renewable alternative for domestic cooking, focusing on characterizing biochar. Herbaceous plants were collected, dried, ground, and carbonized. Biochemical, proximate, and ultimate analyses were conducted using ASTM standards to assess properties such as lignin, hemicellulose, extractives, moisture, ash, volatile matter, and elemental composition. Raw herbaceous plants (RHP) showed significant moisture reduction during preparation. Biochemical analysis revealed RHP's composition, with lignin content higher than literature values. Proximate analysis showed RHP's suitability for fuel use. Carbonization enhanced lignin content in carbonized herbaceous plants (CHP), making them more suitable for fuel utilization. Elemental analysis showed increased carbon content in CHP. Further studies should produce briquette samples from this feedstock and optimize relevant variables for the briquette-making process to enhance its efficiency and viability as a cooking fuel.
Authors : Malut, A.M., Aji, M.A., Muhammad, A.B., El-Jummah, A.M. and Shuwa, M.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 9(1) Date Uploaded : 22nd May 2024