Thermal degradation of açaí seeds and potential application in thermochemical processes

Abstract

Purpose: Thermal and Physicochemical evaluation of açaí seeds for its use in thermochemical conversion processes for clean energy generation. Methodology: Experimental and qualitative research, using analyzes such as: Thermal analysis (TG/DTG and DTA curves) and Calorimetry, Ultimate and Proximate analyzes, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Optical Emission Spectroscopy - Inductively Coupled Plasma. Findings: It was noted that the açaí seeds presented carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen contents as majority elements and a Higher Heating Value (HHV) of 19.8 MJ kg-1. Nitrogen and lead elements were found as trace elements. However, highly polluting elements, e.g., sulfur, cadmium and arsenic were not detected in the samples. Originality: The utilization of açaí seeds by means of thermoconversion processes for bioenergetic purposes can be an attractive socioenvironmental, reducing disposal in inappropriate places, adding considerable value to waste and still protecting the environment.

Evaluation of the Bioenergy Potential of Blends (Green Coconut Shells and Fish Scales) as a Feedstock in Thermochemical Processes for Clean Energy Production

“…The 100GCS, B75, B50, B25, and 100FS samples showed 20.13%, 18.07%, 15.32%, 13.04%, and 11.03% crystallinity indices, respectively. The crystallinity values obtained for the five samples were lower in comparison to other biomasses studied (e.g., tucumã seed (57.4%) and sugarcane bagasse (64.8%) [59], and cassava stem (60.2%) [60]). The CI DRX obtained for 100FS (≈11.0%) was close to that reported by Silva et al [13], i.e., 10.9%.…”

“…SEM images of the samples were obtained under a LEO440 scanning electronic microscope (Leo Electron brand, Zeiss, Jena, Germany) for different times of magnification (60,200,220, 500, and 1000×), according to ASTM E2809-22 [33], and enabled studies of their morphological properties, e.g., external surface structure and formation and distribution of pores on the surface of the lignocellulosic material. A microscope was also used in the energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis to determine and semi-quantify the composition of inorganic elements, according to ASTM E1508-12a [34].…”