Determination of Combustible Properties of Palm Kernel Shell and PalmFiber MixtureforHeat Generation

Abstract

This research investigates the potential of palm kernel shell (PKS) and palmmesocarpfiber(PMF) as alternative energy sources for rural community. Using a Bomb Calorimeter, thecalorific values of agricultural waste materials in both raw and briq form. The results reveal that briquet forms have higher calorific values, with palm kernel shell at 27.35MJ/kg andpalmmesocarp fiber briquettes at 25.92MJ/kg,  compared to their raw counterparts at 24.04MJ/kgand22.97MJ/kg, respectively. Based on the results of physical properties like moisture,  ash, andvolatile matter content. Majority of the parameters meet the minimum standard for calorificvalue (10MJ/kg – 35MJ/kg), indicating  that these materials are viable for energy production. Palm kernel shell shows superior qualities, with a higher mass (25.5g)  compared topalmmesocarp fiber (5.08g), and better FBR and SFC values. By using these agricultural wastesasenergy sources, the  dependency on fuel wood can be reduced, thereby mitigating deforestation, soil degradation, and the impacts of climate change.