Experimental Analysis of Bio-Oil and Biochar Produced from the Pyrolysis of Palm Kernel Shell
Authors: *Akinsade, A., Akinola, A.O. And Yaru, S.S.
DOI Info: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18061685
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the pyrolytic conversion of palm kernel shell (PKS) into bio-oil and biochar and the evaluation of their fuel and chemical potential. A 0.01489 m3 fixed-bed, batch-fed pyrolysis reactor was used to thermally decompose 1.0 kg of PKS at varying temperatures (300, 350, 400, and 450 oC). Product yields were measured, and the resulting bio-oil and char were characterised through proximate, ultimate, and physicochemical analyses. The biochar exhibited high carbon content (up to 74.89%) and low ash and moisture content, resulting in enhanced combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The bio-oil obtained at 450 oC demonstrated favourable fuel properties, including low moisture (0.98%), high carbon content (86.84%), high flash point (96.28 oC), and a cetane number of 51.4. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) analyses confirmed the dominance of phenolic compounds, indicating potential for value-added chemical production. The study concludes that PKS is a viable biomass feedstock for sustainable biofuel and bioproduct applications, contributing to energy diversification and waste valorisation.
Affiliations: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Olusegun Agaga University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Keywords: Palm Kernel Shell, Pyrolysis, Bio-oil, Biochar, Fuel Properties, Phenolic Compounds
Published date: 2025/12/30
