Testing and evaluation of downdraft gasifier using multiple feedstocks / Mark Angelo A. Dadia, Jamiah Mae R. Gonzales, Reynald JR. T. Soberano

UTHESIS (Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering)

Bibliography: leaves 44-46

The escalating carbon emissions, primarily driven by fossil fuel combustion, necessitate urgent exploration of sustainable energy alternatives. Biomass, derived from organic matter like plants and animals, emerges as a promising renewable energy source. Biofuels such as bioethanol, biodiesel, and biogas derived from biomass offer ecologically acceptable substitutes for traditional fuels. Biomass gasification presents a viable method for energy production, utilizing organic waste to generate useful energy. However, challenges such as resource availability, variability in feedstock quality, and gasification efficiency persist. This study investigates the performance of a laboratory-scale downdraft gasifier using multiple feedstocks, namely coconut shells, rice husks, and wood chips. Evaluating parameters such as heating value, run time, cold gas efficiency, and energy output, the study aims to identify the most effective feedstock combination for gasification. Results indicate varying performances among feedstocks, with coconut shell exhibiting the highest heating value, while wood chips demonstrate superior energy output. The study underscores the importance of feedstock selection in optimizing gasification efficiency and highlights the potential of mixed feedstocks to enhance syngas composition and overall efficiency.