Analysis and Test of Biomass Briquette and Stoves

Biomass such as agricultural and forestry residues are important resources for energy in Nepal. This biomass can be converted into densified soild biofuel by briquetting fuel technology which can address handling, transportation, and storage problems. In addition, it helps to increase a number of applications and enhance its utilization efficiency. The purpose of this study is to quantify the physical and chemical properties of different biomass, such as sawdust, banana stem, rice straw, etc. and combustion in order to investigate clear options. Additionally, it helps to provide the efficiency of stoves available at Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) laboratory. Among the feedstock tested, Mikania micrantha char had highest fixed carbon of 45.92% which clearly shows that it is a good source for biomass briquetting. Out of four stoves tested, Baked Ceramic 4 BHB Stoves had highest efficiency of 33.4% with Banmara briquettes. The study also showed reduced emission of harmful gases ultimately reducing the indoor air pollution. Thus, with the proper densification these fuels can be used as a substitute for the traditional fuels in domestic as well as industrial application in furnaces, boilers and kilns. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 14, No. 1 (2013) 115-120 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v14i1.8931