Gasification of ‘loose’ groundnut shells in a throathless downdraft gasifier

Abstract

In this paper, gasification potential of biomass residue was investigated using a laboratory scale throatless downdraft gasifier. Groundnut shells gasified in a throatless downdraft gasifier could be used to produce a clean gas with a calorific value of 5.92 MJ/Nm3 and a combustible fraction of 45% v/v. Low moisture (8.6%) and ash content (3.19%) are the main advantages of groundnut shells for gasification. Gasification of shell waste products is a clean energy alternative to fossil fuels. The product gas can be used efficiently for heating and possible usage in internal combustion engines.