Retort carbonization of bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) waste for thermal energy recovery

Production of biochar from bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) is a potential route to recover thermal energy from biomass. This study presents a preliminary investigation into the thermochemical conversion of bamboo stalks to biochar as a means of recovering energy and material from the waste biomass. At a high temperature of 340 degrees C, a biochar yield of 38 wt% was obtained using a top-lit updraft reactor that uses a retort heating system. Typical characterization of the biochar showed the development of a highly porous structure with a surface area of 327 m(2)/g, indicating the biochars' potential for nutrient recovery and pollutant removal. Thermo-gravimetric analysis reveals a gradual decomposition of the lignocellulosic content as the temperature increases. The significance of the study is in the production of high-quality biochar with desirable qualities using a low-cost self-regulating piece of equipment that is suitable for both remote and on-field application. We recommend the co-carbonization of the bamboo stalks with other sources for complete utilization of their potential. [GRAPHICS] .