Bio-pellets from empty fruit bunch and durian rinds with cornstarch adhesive for potential renewable energy

Abstract

In this paper, two biomass that are abundantly available in Malaysia, namely empty fruit bunch and durian rinds were investigated for bio-char production through pyrolysis process. Both biomass was mixed at different ratio and subjected to a temperature of 325 °C with a holding time of 2 h and 5 °C/min heating rate. The raw mixed biomass was characterised using a Thermogravimetric Analyser (TGA) and the energy content of biomass and produced bio-char was determined using a bomb calorimeter. It was found that the char of 90% empty fruit bunch and 10% durian rinds mixture yielded the highest energy content of 10.3 MJ. The bio-char yield was 41% with a heating value of 25.14 MJ/Kg. Conversion of mixed biomass waste into solid bio-char showed an improvement in the char yield and energy content. The bio-char was then pelletised using corn starch as an adhesive. Addition of 1% corn starch as adhesive to the bio-char yielded pellets with a heating value of 22.37 MJ/kg. The pellets are stable and could be easily handled, transported and stored compared to the bio-char itself. This research is significant in respect to biomass waste reduction and generation of environmental friendly and effective solid biofuel.