Development of a Free-Fall Pyrolysis Reactor for Biofuel Production Using Sugarcane Bagasse and Cassava Rhizomes as Feedstocks

Abstract

This study presents the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a free-fall reactor with a capacity of 1 kg/hr for biofuel production from sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and cassava rhizome (CR). The reactor was designed based on particle heating rate and free-fall velocity principles, with a heating rate of 50°C/min. Experiments were conducted using various blends of SCB and CR at temperatures ranging from 400°C to 650°C, with a residence time of 30 minutes. The results showed that a 50:50 blend of SCB and CR yielded the highest bio-oil yield of 36.2%, with a corresponding heating value of 23.6 MJ/kg. At an operating temperature of 550°C, the yields of biochar and biogas were 16.2% and 47.6%, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility and sustainability of utilizing agricultural residues for bioenergy production through free-fall pyrolysis, offering a promising solution to the energy crisis in developing nations.