Potentials of Sawdust and Rice Husk as Source of Energy for Electricity Generation in Ebonyi South, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Aim: The study aims to evaluate experimentally the calorific value and the chemical composition of the sample (sawdust and rice husk).

Methodology: This study was based on an experimental analysis to determine the potential of sawdust and rice husk (a combined sample) as a source of energy generation. Samples were collected from seven different areas, considering one sawmill and two rice mills in each area. The samples collected were mixed with various mass ratios, dried in an oven, and then sieved to obtain homogeneous sizes. The samples were tested for chemical composition using ultimate and proximate analysis, while the caloric values were tested using a bomb calorimeter.

Place and duration: Ebonyi South region of Ebonyi State, Nigeria, between October 2022 and June 2023

Study Design: With respect to potentiality and availability, the quantity of the combined sample generated per year was obtained from mill personnel. The data collected were carefully computed and analyzed to reflect the stated aim.

Results: The results showed that the combined sample contains 36.20 MJ/kg calorific value, 3.13% carbon, 38.31% hydrogen, 6.65% sulfur, 0.11 carbon monoxide, 45.11% oxygen, and 50.96% fixed carbon. Therefore, at 80% utilization per year, 7949.69 MWh of electricity would be generated using 10334.60 tons of the sample (sawdust and rice husk) on an average scale.

Conclusion: The study carried out has shown that the Ebonyi South region of Nigeria has the required quantity of sawdust and rice husk that can be used to generate electricity if properly harnessed. There is no doubt that the study has raised awareness about the benefits of the proper harnessing of agricultural waste to reduce the emission of dangerous gases into the environment.