The Properties and Suitability of Corn Stover for Co-Gasification with Coal in a Computer Simulated Downdraft Gasifier System

Abstract

Characterization of corn stover and coal were undertaken in order to compare their properties and to determine the combustion characteristics of both feedstocks. Also to establish whether corn stover is a suitable feedstock for blending with coal for the purpose of co-gasification based on its composition and properties. Proximate and ultimate analyses as well as energy value of both samples were undertaken and results showed that corn stover is a biomass material well suited for blending with coal for the purpose of co-gasification, given its high volatile matter content which was measured and found to be 75.3%, and its low ash content of 3.3% including its moderate calorific value of 16.1%. The results of the compositional analyses of their blends were used to conduct computer simulation of the co-gasification process in order to establish the best blend that would result in optimum co-gasification efficiency under standard gasifier operating conditions. Results showed that 90% corn stover:10% coal resulted in a maximum efficiency of about 58% because conversion was efficiently achieved at a temperature that is intermediate to that of coal and corn stover independently.

Save as a Favourite

Author Information
Anthony Anukam, University of Fort Hare, South Africa
Sampson Mamphweli, University of Fort Hare, South Africa
Polycarp Mabizela, University of Fort Hare, South Africa
Edson Meyer, University of Fort Hare, South Africa

• Category: Energy: Renewable Energy and Environmental Solutions

Posted by James Alexander Gordon

All Posts