Environmental footprint assessment of multiple feedstock syngas production / Jhon Robin C. Agcaoili, Dariel Keith D. Butay

UTHESIS ( Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering)

Bibliography: leaves 37-40

Biomass combustion is often recognized as a carbon-neutral energy source due to the carbon dioxide emitted during combustion being balanced by carbon absorption throughout its lifecycle. However, this presumption requires a thorough Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to determine its actual environmental impact. This study addressed the need for such assessments by examining the environmental footprint of syngas production based on multiple feedstock gasification. The goal and scope of the study are limited to the cradle-to-gate system boundary of multiple feedstock syngas production, encompassing the extraction of raw materials, transportation of raw materials, and the multiple feedstock gasification process. It specifically aimed to comprehend the environmental impacts of different feedstock selections, such as rice husk, coconut shell, and wood chips. Utilizing the open-source application OpenLCA, the study defines the functional unit as the production of 10 kg of syngas via multiple feedstock gasification, providing a quantifiable reference for analysis. Arduino sensors, such as the CCS811 gas sensor and MQ4 methane gas, were used to quantify carbon dioxide and methane emissions in the gasification process. Results indicated that the combination of rice husk and coconut shell had the highest contribution to CO2 emission. In contrast, rice husk, coconut shell, and wood chips had the highest CH4 emission based on the multiple feedstock gasification process. The combination of rice husk and coconut shell is the highest contributor of kg CO2 equivalent. The study recommends quantifying other gases on the gasifier emission such as carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, and hydrogen gases is recommended.