Performance testing of a multi-layer biomass briquette stove

Abstract

The production of greenhouse gases (GHG) has led to the Earth's surface temperature increasing by an average of 0.6°C in the 20th century. This is partly due to over reliance on fossil fuels. Human activities are estimated to account for about 69% of GHG emissions. There is now an urgent need for alternative fuels, especially renewables such as biomass, to mitigate this. In most of Sub-Saharan Africa, cooking is conducted in open fires using fire wood. This practice has poor health implications due to gases emitted largely due to incomplete combustion. The consequence is reduced mortality especially for women and children due to respiratory related diseases such as chronic obstruction pulmonary disease (COPD). The main aim of this work is to report on tests conducted on a low-cost biomass briquette domestic stove that was developed to improved biomass briquette combustion. Thermal efficiency, rate of heat loss and combustion effectiveness of the design was analysed as key performance variables of the stove. The goal was to develop a safe and reliable low-cost biomass briquette stove that will be used for domestic cooking in communities with low income streams. Stove geometry and temperatures at various points were identified as major contributors to stove effectiveness. During the investigation, controlled cooking test (CCT) method was used. Results showed good stove performance for typical cooking times.