Experimental investigation of imbert downdraft gasifier using rice straw briquettes

Abstract

ABSTRACT The mechanized harvesting of rice crop has led to open-field burning of rice straw that liberates a large amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs), which have a negative effect on the environment. Gasification is an efficient technology for the conversion of biomass to producer gas with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The present study was planned to convert the abundantly available rice straw into briquettes and its thermochemical conversion into producer gas for thermal energy utilization. The performance of imbert type gasifier was investigated using rice straw briquettes as fuel by studying the influence of airflow rate on fuel consumption rate and temperature profile inside the combustion zone. The augmentation of airflow rate from 0.0022 to 0.0042 m3/s led to a significant increase in feedstock consumption rate (63.3%). The time taken for boiling of water also increased with an increase in airflow rate which may be attributed to the corresponding decrease in calorific value of producer gas. Rice straw briquettes with cotton stalks as a binder (90:10) can act as a clean alternative fuel for gasification and the producer gas generated can be used for various thermal applications.