Comparative Gasification Process Studies for Prosopis (P.Juliflora) and Rice Husks (Oryza Sp.) into Renewable Energy Resources in Kenya

Abstract

Management of Agricultural wastes especially rice husks and the invasive weed species Prosopis juliflora which has seen massive invasions in many areas in Kenya presents great challenges to the environment. Rice husks are a key byproduct of rice production that is not considered of economic value and since they do not biodegrade easily they pose a waste management issue in the rice growing regions. The invasion of P. juliflora in Kenya has resulted in a myriad of social and ecological concerns and has interfered with community livelihoods in several ways. The objective of the study was to carryout comparative studies on the potential for utilization of Rice husks and P. juliflora as renewable energy resources for syngas production. The study profiled optimal temperature and residence time for the gasification of P.juliflora and rice husks. Chemical composition of the Syngas was carried out at each cleaning device, as properties that require consideration with regard to investments in the bio energy. The analysis was carried out using Fourier Transform Gas Analyzer Matrix – MG from Bruker to determine the composition of the syngas. Co-firing of P.juliflora and rice husks was also assessed. Syngas from rice husks was found to be mainly composed of 17.05 ± 0.21 % CO, 15.7 ± 0.14 % CO2, 4.3 ± 0.00 H2, 7.35 ± 0.07 CH4 and 28.1 ± 0.42 % N2 while Syngas from Prosopis was found to be composed of 21.15 ± 0.91 % CO, 13.15 ± 0.50 % CO2, 19.25 ± 0.07 H2, 5.45 ± 0.07 CH4 and 40.585 ± 0.19 % N2. The development of the novel gasification technology that seeks to utilize Rice husks and P. juliflora as feedstock for bioenergy production is a breakthrough in clean energy development in Kenya.