Physicochemical Characterization of Woody Lignocellulosic Biomass and Charcoal for Bio-energy Heat Generation

Abstract

Biomass and its interactions for heat generation have received little attention. In this study, the woody biomass materials were Prosopis africana (PA), Harungana madascariences (HM), Vitrllaria paradoxa (VP), and Afzelia africana (AA). The composition (extractives, carbohydrate, and lignin) of the biomass was determined. The biomass was converted to charcoal in a traditional kiln. A thermo-kinetic examination of the charcoal samples was carried out. The kinetic parameters and potential reaction mechanisms involved in the decomposition process were both obtained using the integral (Flynn–Wall Ozawa) isoconversional methods in conjunction with the Coats-Redfern approach. The activation energy profiles for the charcoal samples in oxidizing atmospheres were 548 kJ/mol for AA, 274 kJ/mol for VP, 548 kJ/mol for PA, and 274 kJ/mol for HM. All charcoal samples underwent comprehensive, multi-step, complex reaction pathways for thermal degradation. The charcoal samples exhibit not only great potential for biochemical extraction but also for bioenergy applications. The significant amount of combustion characteristics in the raw biomass and charcoal samples indicates that each type of wood charcoal produced has more fixed carbon, less ash, and less volatile matter, all of which are desirable for the thermo-chemical conversion of biomass for the production of heat.

Co-designing sustainable biochar business models with sub-Saharan African communities for inclusive socio-economic transformation

“… Solid biofuel: biochar provides high energy density and carbon–neutral combustion but requires costly, specialized equipment and poses emission concerns. Alternative traditional biofuels, mainly wood and firewood, produce efficient combustion but contribute to the deforestation of woodlots and forest ecosystems 53 . Additives for biogas production: biochar enhances methane production and digestate quality but also faces compatibility issues and feedstock variability, mainly during the off-season.…”

“…Solid biofuel: biochar provides high energy density and carbon–neutral combustion but requires costly, specialized equipment and poses emission concerns. Alternative traditional biofuels, mainly wood and firewood, produce efficient combustion but contribute to the deforestation of woodlots and forest ecosystems 53 .…”