Ash Content Value Research Articles

Pemanfaatan Sampah Organik dan Tempurung Kelapa Menjadi Briket Ramah Lingkungan

The aim of this research is to determine the feasibility of producing environmentally friendly briquettes using organic waste and coconut shells as the main ingredients. 3 (three) briquette compositions, including: (1) 25% organic waste, equivalent to 75% coconut shell; (2) 75% organic waste, 25 percent coconut shell; and (3) 50% organic waste, 50 percent coconut shells. The research method used to analyze the water content, ash content and heating value of briquettes is a quantitative research method. The results of this research show that organic waste and coconut shells can be converted into environmentally friendly briquettes. Briquettes with a mixture composition of 75%:25% have a reduced ash percentage. Meanwhile, mixed briquettes containing 25%:75% have a low water content, meaning more coconut shell, the lower the water content and the better the properties of the briquettes.

Comparative Analysis of Domestic Production and Import of Hard Coal in Poland: Conclusions for Energy Policy and Competitiveness

In many energy policies, including Poland’s, environmental priorities clash with the issue of energy security. With these contradictions in mind, the main objective of the article is a comparative analysis of domestic production and imports of hard coal in Poland and the formulation of conclusions for energy policy and competitiveness. The analysis covers the years 2018–2023 and concerns three issues: the volume and directions of coal imports to Poland, the qualitative and price competitiveness of coal, and the possibility of substituting imported coal with domestic coal. The research used statistical analysis. Indicators of structure and dynamics as well as comparative analysis were also used. The analysis shows that the structure of coal importers to Poland is quite diverse and includes many geographic directions. However, until 2021, it was dominated by Russia, followed by Colombia, indicating a fairly homogeneous supply market and a continuing tendency to depend on a single importer. Analysis of qualitative competitiveness confirms the existence of balance and industrial resources whose quality parameters (sulfur content, ash content, and calorific value) are comparable to and better than those of imported coal. Polish hard coal can also compete with imported coal in terms of price. From 2021 to 2023, it was clearly cheaper than foreign coal. In the above circumstances, it is quite difficult to unequivocally assess the reasons for importing coal to Poland and to justify dependence on external suppliers. This is especially relevant since domestic mining in 2020–2023 remains stable (periodically even increasing), which does not indicate a decisive shift away from coal as an energy resource.

Hydrothermal liquefaction: exploring feedstock for sustainable biofuel production

A number of technological strategies utilizing various types of biomass for the production of hydrocarbons have been put forth but their energy intensive methods are a concern for improved efficiency of biofuel production. Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) has emerged as a promising and feasible technology towards utilization of lignocellulosic biomass. The suitability of different biomass feedstock for HTL is intricately tied to their macromolecular composition and process parameters. The comprehensive analysis of feedstock for hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) signal towards the immense potential of various biomass feedstock, such as corn stover, Miscanthus, pine biomass, Spirulina, sugarcane bagasse, rice bran etc. in contributing significantly to renewable energy production. The study emphasizes that the composition of biomass is critical in influencing bio-oil yield during the HTL process. Biomass components like cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, each play distinct roles in determining the efficiency of conversion. Specifically, feedstock with higher cellulose and hemicellulose content, such as Miscanthus and sugarcane bagasse, demonstrate superior bio-oil yields. The analysis of proximate factors affecting HTL efficiency reveals that moisture content, ash content and high heating value (HHV) are pivotal in optimizing the process. In addition to composition and physical characteristics, the article underscores the significance of growth conditions and nutrient utilization in cultivating biomass feedstock. Integrating HTL with biomass cultivation can create a sustainable, closed-loop system where nutrients from the HTL process are recycled back into cultivation. Biomass offers a renewable energy alternative, however it also poses challenges related to land use and potential competition with food production. Sustainable practices, such as utilizing agricultural and forestry residues and optimizing collection as well as storage processes, can alleviate some of these concerns. By optimizing feedstock selection, process parameters, and integrating sustainable practices, HTL can play a decisive role in advancing biofuel production and contributing to a more sustainable energy future. The interplay between biomass composition, processing efficiency, environmental impacts, and economic feasibility is essential for realizing the full potential of HTL technology in the bio-economy. The current analysis sheds light on the relationship of bio-oil yield with macromolecular components including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin as well as process parameters like ash content, moisture content, higher heating value, fixed carbon and volatiles. Focusing on process optimization, this study embodies a closer analysis of literature aimed at defining optimum strategies for enhancement of HTL.

Nutrient Composition And Sensory Evaluation Of Sorghum Based Complementary Food Fortified With Soybean, Carrot And Crayfish

The nutritional composition and sensory characteristics of sorghum-based complementary food fortified with soybean, carrot and crayfish at different substitutional levels were evaluated using standard analytical procedures. The results revealed that moisture,ash,fat,fibre,protein and carbohydrate content values range from 7.73% to 13.07%, 1.84% to 4.66%, 39.48% to 44.02%, 0.02% to 2.01%, 13.59% to 24.51% and 16.31% to 27.44% respectively. The selected minerals showed that calcium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and iron varied from 1.61 to 15.56mg/100g, 0.05 to 4.71mg/100g, 3.51 to 8.80mg/100g, 0.22 to 7.78mg/100g and 0.02 to 6.68mg/100g respectively. Vitamin A showed an appreciable amount in the sample with the inclusion of carrot.Values obtained met the Codex Alimentarius Commission Guidelines for formulated complementary foods for older infant and young children. The sensory properties revealed that sample E (60% sorghum, 25% soybean, 10% carrot and 5% crayfish) was most preferred and this has provided a basis for the development of an acceptable complementary food that can provide the needed protein and other nutrients, thereby combating protein energy malnutrition in infants

Analysis of technologies of disposal and use fibrous paper skopje

The article examines the current state and trends in the development of waste management technologies in the pulp and paper industry, with the aim of analyzing the reasons that hinder, and sometimes make impossible, the effective utilization of fibrous waste paper to obtain environmentally safe materials and raw products. The production of paper products is one of the most capital-intensive and energy-intensive industries, second only to the metallurgical and chemical industries, with a correspondingly large amount of waste and a negative impact on the environment. The technological processes of scum formation as a result of waste paper recycling and paper production wastewater treatment are considered and analyzed. Skopje is the final waste of the pulp and paper industry, which is formed at various stages of the paper and cardboard manufacturing process, therefore it is deposited in landfills. Multiton volumes of skopje require significant areas for its storage. Despite the low IV hazard class, this leads to serious environmental problems, as the leachate from the skopje landfill pollutes surface and ground water. Technologies of possible disposal and reuse of skopje, known in domestic and foreign literature, are described and analyzed. The technology of reusing scoop is determined by its relatively environmentally safe physicochemical composition. The indicated fibrous, mineral, extractive constituents and lignin determine the possibility of reusing skopje, mainly for the construction industry. The perspective of the complex use of multi-tonnage waste – slag, sludge, ash and slag of thermal power plants as plasticizers, fillers, binders and binding components in the production of building structural and heat-insulating materials is named. Technologies for using scapula as a filler in the production of building materials require a high content of inorganic compounds and a minimum amount of organic compounds. A high content of fibrous particles and a low content of mineral substances is necessary when using scapula in the production of composite wood composite materials. The specified technological limitations ensure only small amounts of skopje use in the production of building materials. The effectiveness of using skopje as an additive to the asphalt mixture for road construction and production of fuel materials is determined by the economic costs of transportation and dewatering. It is noted that the high humidity, ash content and low calorific value of scum are the main reason for the lack of effective technologies for its utilization. The solution to the problem is the use of low-energy technologies through the direct use of osprey as a component of the soil mixture for biological reclamation of man-made landscapes. The article substantiates an environmentally safe and socially favourable option for using a soil substrate based on osprey. It is emphasised that the humidity and organic viscosity of the plant origin of osprey form the agrotechnical properties of soil substrates of prolonged action, which ensure optimal technological efficiency of phytomelioration of degraded lands. The reclaimed areas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the soil, prevent wind and water erosion, and ensure the environmental safety of natural and man-made ecosystems.

Thermal Characteristics of Malaysian Khaya Senegalensis Wood Fuel Pellets: Densification-Induced Changes at Different Feedstock Moisture Levels

This study investigates the thermal behaviour of Malaysian Khaya senegalensis wood energy pellets, examining the effects of densification at different feedstock moisture levels. Densified wood pellets are promising renewable energy sources, but the impact of densification on thermal characteristics, considering various moisture contents, is underexplored. The main objective is to quantify the thermal characteristics, which involved proximate analysis such as energy pellets’ ash content, fixed carbon, volatile matter, and calorific value. In this research, Malaysian Khaya senegalensis wood was converted into pellets through a densification process, spanning from of 4-20% feedstock moisture levels. The manufactured pellets were then subjected to various tests to characterize the thermal properties. Results reveal compelling insights on the relationships between densification, moisture content, and thermal properties. Densification significantly influenced thermal attributes, with effects tied to initial moisture content. Varying moisture levels led to distinct thermal responses, reflecting interactions between densification-induced changes in moisture and thermal responses. In this study, the best moisture content for ash content was found to be 16%, with 3.24% ash content, 16% moisture content with volatile matter of 85.24%, fixed carbon of 12% from 20% moisture content, and 16% moisture content with calorific value of 19.65 MJ/kg. These findings aid Khaya senegalensis wood pellet densification optimization for improved thermal performance. Understanding densification's impact on thermal behaviour under varying moisture conditions enhances pellet efficiency as sustainable energy sources. This research contributes to biomass pellet knowledge for renewable energy applications, advancing efficient and eco-friendly energy solutions.

Physicochemical Evaluation and Pharmacological Screening of Fernando Adenophylla Steenis Fruits.

The current study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical properties of Fernandoa adenophylla. Powder studies were carried out to estimate the quantitative physicochemical characteristics of the crude drug, including moisture content, ash content, and extractive values. Using a Soxhlet apparatus and different analytical grade solvents, 3 sample extracts of a crude drug were made. To evaluate the potentially toxic nature, an acute oral toxicity study was performed as per OECD guideline no. 423. Sample extracts were tested and analyzed by ANOVA for pharmacological potential (analgesic, antipyretic, and antidiabetic) using Wister-Albino rats. Where physicochemical analysis indicated purity, quality, and presence of organic/inorganic materials in crude drug extracts, no sign of mortality was found up to 2000 mg/kg of body weight of Fernandoa adenophyllas extracts. Analgesic activity was observed in all sample extracts, whereas only chloroform and ethanolic extracts expressed antipyretic and antidiabetic potential. Ethanolic extract was found to be most potent in pharmacological potential as 200 mg/kg extract dose exhibited %age pain inhibition of 55.12 % and reduced body temperature from 39.78±0.03 °C to 37.22±0.02 °C in hyperthermic rats. A decrease in blood glucose levels up to 57.88 % was observed on the 21st day of the treatment with 500 mg/kg ethanolic extract.

The Perspective of Using Neural Networks and Machine Learning Algorithms for Modelling and Forecasting the Quality Parameters of Coking Coal—A Case Study

The quality of coking coal is vital in steelmaking, impacting final product quality and process efficiency. Conventional forecasting methods often rely on empirical models and expert judgment, which may lack accuracy and scalability. Previous research has explored various methods for forecasting coking coal quality parameters, yet these conventional methods frequently fall short in terms of accuracy and adaptability to different mining conditions. Existing forecasting techniques for coking coal quality are limited in their precision and scalability, necessitating the development of more accurate and efficient methods. This study aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of forecasting coking coal quality parameters by employing neural networks and artificial intelligence algorithms, specifically in the context of Knurow and Szczyglowice mines. The research involves gathering historical data on various coking coal quality parameters, including a proximate and ultimate analysis, to train and test neural network models using the Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH). Real-world data from Knurow and Szczyglowice mines’ coal production facilities form the basis of this case study. The integration of neural networks and artificial intelligence techniques significantly improves the accuracy of predicting key quality parameters such as ash content, sulfur content, volatile matter, and calorific value. This study also examines the impact of these quality indicators on operational costs and highlights the importance of final indicators like the Coke Reactivity Index (CRI) and Coke Strength after Reaction (CSR) in expanding industrial reserve concepts. Model performance is evaluated using metrics such as mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), and coefficient of determination (R2). The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of these advanced techniques in enhancing predictive modeling in the mining industry, optimizing production processes, and improving overall operational efficiency. Additionally, this research offers insights into the practical implementation of advanced analytics tools for predictive maintenance and decision-making support within the mining sector.

Energy usage of spruce with waste face masks and spent coffee grounds as fuel in a pellet boiler

It is necessary to reduce dependency on fossil fuels for heating and waste generation, while also utilizing the energy potential of waste materials. One possibility is to create fuel pellets where waste makes up a small proportion so that the properties of the wood are not significantly altered with. This article investigates the energy usage of pellets containing spent coffee grounds (5 % or 10 %) and waste face masks (5 % or 10 %), with spruce sawdust as the primary input material (80 % or 90 %). The elemental, thermogravimetric, calorific value, mechanical durability, emission and performance characteristics, and ash melting temperatures of the pellets were evaluated during the experiment. The results were compared with respect to pure spruce sawdust pellets and the specified limit values for wood pellets in commercial and residential applications as specified in ISO 17225 [18]. Both tested samples met the element content limit (N, S, Cl, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Hg, Ni, and Zn) for the highest quality grade (A1). No significant amounts of harmful elements were detected. The samples also complied with the limits of moisture content, ash content, and net calorific value (also known as lower calorific value). All samples met the emission limits in their respective classes (3, 4, or 5) according to STN EN 303-5+A1 [35]. However, the samples failed to meet the limit values for mechanical durability and ash melting temperatures. Despite this, the manufactured pellet samples represent a suitable fuel product for combustion purposes as a more sustainable thermal energy fuel.

Enhancing lucerne (Medicago sativa) yield and nutritional quality: a meta-analysis of fertilization types and environmental factors in China.

Lucerne (Medicago sativa), is a cornerstone of China's livestock industry, however, due to the backward agronomic strategies and technology, lucerne in China faces cultivation challenges that result in lower productivity and quality than global standards. Therefore, we undertook a meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of five distinct fertilization types on lucerne yield and nutritional quality in various locations in China. The fertilizer practices included manure application, combined mineral fertilizer and manure application (FM), biological fertilizer application, unbalanced application of two or more mineral fertilizer types, and balanced mineral fertilizer application. Furthermore, we investigate influential factors of yield and quality of lucerne under fertilization, including climatic variables (mean annual precipitation, mean annual temperature), initial soil properties (soil organic carbon; total nitrogen, pH), and agronomic factors (seeding rate, harvest frequency, and lucerne stand age). Our study analyzed 53 published papers to discern the most beneficial fertilizer for enhancing lucerne yield and nutritional quality. The results showed that the fertilizer practices, on average, significantly improved yield by 31.72% and crude protein content by 11.29%, with FM emerging as the most effective, this is because mineral fertilizers provide available nutrients for lucerne, manure provides essential organic matter for microorganisms and improve soil properties. In addition, the fertilizer practices significantly reduced neutral and acid detergent fiber contents by 6.28% and 8.50%, respectively, while increasing ash content and relative feeding value. Furthermore, climatic variables, soil properties, and planting system factors such as sowing date and harvest frequency significantly affected yield and nutritional quality. The practical implications of our results emphasize the need for balanced and strategic fertilizer application to optimize lucerne production and highlight the potential to adjust cultivation practices according to environmental conditions. Balanced and strategic fertilizer application can simultaneously improve soil properties, enhance soil carbon sequestration, and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases from the soil, which is a vital measure for realizing sustainable agricultural development.

Utilization of Livestock Waste (Cow Manure) and Household Waste (Waste Cooking Oil) as Briquettes to Substitute Alternative Fuels

As the global population continues to grow, there is a corresponding increase in energy consumption annually. The need for alternative energy sources is evident in light of the finite reserves of oil. Briquettes are a renewable energy option that can help decrease reliance on oil. Briquettes can be produced through the utilization of organic waste materials. This research was carried out from 19 September to 18 October 2023, at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Palangka Raya, and the Analytical Laboratory, Muhammadiyah University, Palangka Raya. The aim of this research is to determine the quality of briquettes made using cow dung charcoal and cooking oil as an adhesive. The parameters of this research are water content, ash content, burn rate, and colorific value. This research used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) model with 4 treatments and each treatment was repeated 5 times so that there were 20 experimental units. The composition of the briquettes consists of (P1) = 90% cow dung and 10% used cooking oil, (P2): 87.5% cow dung and 12.5% ​​used cooking oil, (P3): 85% cow dung and 15% used cooking oil and (P4): 82.5% cow dung and 17.5% ​​used cooking oil. The results of variance analysis showed that the parameters of water content, ash content, burn rate, and colorific value did not show a significant influence between treatments (P>0.05) although there was a trend that P1 and P3 were better than the other treatments. It was concluded that the best quality of briquettes in terms of water content and ash content was in the P1 treatment (Briquettes with a composition of 90% cow dung and 10% used cooking oil), whereas if viewed from the burning rate and calorific value of the best briquettes, it was the P3 treatment (Briquettes with a composition of 85 % cow dung and 15% used cooking oil).

Produksi Briket dari Limbah Plastik dan Ampas Tebu dengan Metode Pirolisis

Plastic is a polymer product that is widely used in society. This resultx in an increase in plastic waste. Plastic waste processing needs to be done to prevent environmental emissions. Plasstic waste can be converted into an alternative energy source in briquettes. The reasearch object is to produce briquettes from plastic and sugarcane bagasse. Plastic briquettes and bagasse have a ratio of 1:2, 1:1 and 2:1. The second stage is the preparation and design of the tool using the pyrolisis method. Research variables include the composition of plastic waste and sugarcane bagasse. Analysis of briquette products includes calorific value, ash conten and water conten. The results of research on briquette products with variations in sampel A having a ratio of 1:2, sample B with ratio of 1:1 and sample C with a ratio 2:1 respectively show a calorific value of 3,929 cal/g, 4.013 cal/g, 4,222 cal/g; water content values of 8,6%, 6,7%, 5,8%, the ash content value is 5,4%, 7,2% and 8,6% and the volatile matter value is 15.3, 13.2% and 12,6%.

Comparison of nutritional compositions and heavy metals analysis between wild and farmed Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) and Asian Seabass (Lates sp.) in Sabah, Malaysia

In Sabah, Malaysia, Tilapia and Asian seabass are culturally and economically important seafood choices. Understanding their nutritional content and contaminants, both wild-caught and farmed, is crucial as demand increases. This study aimed to analyze the proximate composition and heavy metals concentrations in Tilapia and Asian Seabass fish flesh, and compare the wild-caught and farmed samples. The results revealed significant nutritional variations between the two groups. Wild-caught Tilapia exhibited higher protein content (16.90 ± 0.50 %), carbohydrate levels (0.7 ± 0.10 %), moisture (80.25 ± 0.58 %), and ash content (9.22 ± 1.27 %) while farmed Tilapia displayed elevated fat content (3.55 ± 0.05 %) and energy values (94.5 kcal per 100 g). Iron concentrations in both wild and farmed Tilapia remained within safe limits for human consumption and Zinc was detected in wild Tilapia only. Meanwhile, the farmed Asian Seabass demonstrated higher protein (18.45 ± 0.25 %), fat (0.9 ± 0.10 %), carbohydrate (0.8 ± 0.20 %), ash content (21.04 ± 2.1 %), and energy values (85.5 kcal per 100 g) compared to the wild. Further study can be conducted to study the benefits of these fish species to human health upon consumption.

Evaluating the Potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) in Cement Production: a Comparative Analysis of RDF Variations In Indonesia's Emplacement Pluit, Jakarta

This study critically evaluated the potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable substitute for coal in the cement manufacturing process. Using Emplacement Pluit's waste as a primary source, three distinct RDF variations were analyzed: RDF A (comprised purely of PET Charcoal), RDF B (a 50-50 combination of PET Charcoal and organic waste), and RDF C (solely organic waste). Among the parameters evaluated were moisture content, ash content, and calorific value. The results indicated RDF A's superior quality, with a moisture content of 2.6%, ash content of 0.7%, and a calorific value of 25.1 MJ/kg. In stark contrast, RDF C exhibited a high waste reduction potential at 80.5%, but its calorific value fell short of Korean standards. RDF B, balancing quality and reduction potential, achieved a 98.9% waste reduction and met Korean RDF standards, making it the most viable alternative to coal in cement production. The study underscores the significant potential of integrating RDF in industrial practices, particularly cement kilns. It offers insight into optimizing waste management strategies in line with the 'zero-waste' vision.

Study of Continuous Ohmic Heating on Quality Attributes of Paneer and Its Shelf Life

The study was aimed to compare the quality attributes of paneer prepared by milk heated using a two-stage continuous ohmic heating system was compared with convectional method. The comparison was based on compositional and textural analysis of conventionally prepared paneer. The changes occurred in sensory, acidity and microbial profile during storage at refrigeration temperature was studied . Desired temperature of milk (80°C) was achieved by applying voltage of 137.7 V in stage-1 and 72.2 V in stage-2, whereas steam was used as a heating medium in conventional method. The composition of paneer was not affected significantly and showed similar values for moisture, fat, protein, lactose and ash content at par. Moreover, the values of hardness, cohesiveness, springiness and adhesiveness were slightly lower compared to samples heated using conventional methods, indicating better textural profile of ohmically prepared paneer.

Rapid quantitative analysis of coal composition using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coupled with random forest algorithm.

Coal is the primary energy source in China, widely used in energy production, industrial processes, and chemical engineering. Due to the complexity and diversity of coal quality, there is an urgent need for new technologies to achieve rapid and accurate detection and analysis of coal, aiming to improve coal resource utilization and reduce pollutant emissions. This study proposes a rapid quantitative analysis of coal using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with the random forest algorithm. Firstly, a Q-switched Nd: YAG laser at 1064nm was employed to ablate coal samples, generating plasma, and spectral data were collected using a spectrometer. Secondly, the study explores the impact of different parameters in the preprocessing method (wavelet transform) on the predictive performance of the random forest model. It identifies elements related to coal ash content and calorific value along with their spectral information. Subsequently, to further validate the predictive performance of the model, a comparison is made with models established using support vector machine, artificial neural network, and partial least squares. Finally, under optimal parameters for spectral information preprocessing (wavelet transform with Db4 as the base function and 3 decomposition levels), a model combining wavelet transform with Random Forest is established to predict and analyze the ash content and calorific value of coal. The results demonstrate that the Wavelet Transform-Random Forest model exhibits excellent predictive performance (coal ash content: R2 = 0.9470, RMSECV = 4.8594, RMSEP = 4.8450; coal calorific value: R2 = 0.9485, RMSECV = 1.5996, RMSEP = 1.5949). Therefore, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy combined with the random forest algorithm is an effective method for rapid and accurate detection and analysis of coal. The predicted coal composition values show high accuracy, providing insights and methods for coal composition monitoring and analysis.

Pharmacognostic, Physicochemical and Phytochemical analysis of Hibiscus cannabinus Leaves

The work deals with Pharmacognostic, physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical analysis of Hibiscus cannabinus L., (Malvaceae). The macroscopic and microscopic characteristics were observed namely physical constant values, ash values, and micro-chemical analysis. The presence of lignified cells, pericyclic fibers, stone cells, cuticles, calcium oxalate crystal, as seen in the powders of leaves. Physical constants like foreign organic matter, moisture content, ash content, acid-insoluble ash and water-soluble ash extractive values were determined the extracts shows presence of steroids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, alkaloid, glycosides, phenols, and tannins by phytochemical screening. The above study will highlighted characterize the pharmacognotical, physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical parameters of Hibiscus cannabinus Linn.

Utilization of durian peels (Durio zibethinus) and lubricant treatment sludge as raw materials of Refuse-Derived Fuel

Fossil energy is among the most widely utilized energy sources in Indonesian industry, but its continuous use is leading to its depleted. Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) offers an alternative made from organic and inorganic waste. Durian peel is identified as a promising raw material for RDF due to its high calorific value of 6,274 Kcal/kg. Additionally, Lubricant Treatment Sludge (LTS), which is collected from the oil treatment industry, is used to enhance RDF’s calorific value, as it contains residual oil rich in hydrocarbons. To bind the RDF components, tapioca starch, durian seeds, and rejected papaya were selected as adhesives. The mixture ratios of durian skin, LTS, and adhesive were tested at compositions (90:0:10), (85:5:10), (80:10:10), (75:15:10), and (70:20:10). Subsequent RDF characteristics analyses included tests for moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and calorific value. Based on these evaluations, the most optimal composition was determined to be 90% durian peel, 0% LTS, and 10% tapioca starch adhesive. This composition exhibited a moisture content of 1.6%, volatile matter of 74.6%, ash content of 8.4%, fixed carbon of 15.2%, and a calorific value of 3,516 Kcal/kg. Tapioca starch emerged as preferred adhesive due to its favorable properties and characteristics.

KINETICS AND THERMODYNAMIC ASSESSMENT OF RICE HUSK IN AN INERT ATMOSPHERE AS A FEEDSTOCK FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL PRODUCTION

The utilisation of rice husk as a feedstock for alternative fuel production is an area of growing interest due to its abundance and potential as a renewable energy source. This study reports investigation of kinetics and thermodynamics of rice husk pyrolysis in an inert atmosphere. Experimental analysis, including proximate, ultimate, structural composition and thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), were conducted to determine the proxanal, ultanal, chemical composition and pyrolysis characteristics of rice husk under inert conditions. Kinetics of the pyrolysis process was evaluated using distributed activation energy model (DAEM) while thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy (E A), changes in enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS),and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) were computed to provide insights into the reaction mechanisms. The feedstock exhibited ash content, fixed carbon, volatile matter, and higher heating value on dry basis of 13.56wt%, 16.37wt%, 70.07wt% and 15.22MJ/kg respectively while the result of ultimate analysis showed carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulphur and oxygen content of 40.95, 5.67, 0.22, 0.09 and 52.17wt%. The chemical composition result (water extractives-free) indicated cellulose, hemicellulos and lignin content of 39.12, 17.56 and 22.43 wt%. The kinetics analysis revealed that the pyrolysis process followed a single-order reaction mechanism and irreversible, suggesting that the pyrolysis reactions proceed in a direction that favors the formation of products. The average E A, ΔH, ΔS and ΔG required for the pyrolysis reactions was established to be 140.56 kJ/mol, 137.00 kJ/mol, -135.25 J/mol and 222.38 kJ/mol respectively. The comprehensive assessment of the feedstock affirms its suitability for alternative fuel production towards a greener energy landscape.

Characteristics of PB 260 clone rubber coagulated with natural coagulants: type of Averrhoa

The aim of this research was to determine the properties of the PB 260 clone rubber using the Averrhoa type coagulant. The natural coagulants used in this study were Averrhoa bilimbi and Averrhoa carambola. The latex used was 150 ml of PB 260 clone rubber with a concentration of 100% natural coagulant of 75 ml and 2% formic acid. The rubber properties that were tested were Po, PRI, DRC, ash content, dirt content, volatile matter content and Mooney viscosity. This research also uses a special treatment in the form of centrifugation speed. The higher the centrifugation speed, the higher the pH value of the natural coagulant and the lower the H+ ion value, which accelerates the coagulation time of the latex. In natural coagulant extract, the highest values of Po, PRI, DRC, ash content, dirt content and Mooney viscosity were obtained at 0 rpm for Averrhoa bilimbi extract with values of 40%, 94.17%, 32.83%, 0, 32%, 0.038% and 77 MU. Meanwhile, in the test for volatile matter content, the highest value was found in Averrhoa carambola at 5000 rpm with a value of 0.23%.