Determination of the calorific values of bio briquettes obtained from different manufacturers around Kampala

Abstract

Solid biomass fuels are useful and cost effective energy source. The energy content of biomass is determined by its calorific value. The objective of this study was to experimentally determine the calorific values of briquettes obtained from different manufacturers around Kampala. The fuel samples used to make these briquettes were from agricultural residues and wastes. The mass samples were experimentally determined using an oxygen bomb calorimeter, model IKA C 2000, TecQuipment. Analyses of experimental values showed that the calorific values of briquettes are directly related to their properties and the values ranged from 16410.5J/g – 19865.5J/g which is in agreement with the widely reported values in the acceptable range of 13KJ/g – 20KJ/g The highest calorific value was obtained from the mass sample from APL which was 19865.5J/g due to its good thermal and physical properties such as the moisture content, ash content, particle size, compression strength among others while the sample from UIDC had the lowest calorific value of 16410.5J/g.