Studies on the Energy Properties and Fuel Potentials of Selected Indigenously Processed Plant-Based Bio-Resources Used as Sources of Sustainable Flame in North Central Nigerian Communities

Abstract

In this work, the stems of two matured shrubby plants identified as wild bitter leaf (Vernonia  colorata) & kenaf (Hibiscus canabinus) were studied for their energy properties and fuel potentials.  The indigenously processed and dried stems of these plants have historically been used as sources of sustainable bright flame in communities within north central Nigeria. The two samples were collected, dried, pulverized and extracted using appropriate solvents to isolate the volatile combustible compounds believed to be responsible for the bright flame on combustion. The isolates are being purified to be detected using appropriate instrumentations such as GCMS and LCMS (ongoing). Prior to isolation, the physical energy properties which include; total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), fixed carbon, ash content, ultimate values, calorific value, moisture contents (MC) were determined. The gases emitted by these plants materials on combustion were also detected using multigas detector (Altair 5x Multigas). The results obtained indicate the concentrations of gases emitted such as CO, SOx and, NOx from the processed substances on combusting are within acceptable standard limits set for these gases, which suggest it is environmentally friendly. The technology employed in making the plants provide more sustainable flame for the light will eventually be studied by collecting samples of substances used in the process (water, mud, algae) for characterization.

Keywords: Energy, fuel, bio-resources, sustainable flame

DOI: 10.7176/JETP/9-6-02

Publication date: August 31^st 2019