Energy Potential Study of Some Tropical Wood Species from Nigeria

Aims: To carry out experimental study of the energy potential of some tropical wood species.

Study Design: It involved sample collection, experimental analysis and numerical validation of the obtained calorific values.

Place and Duration of Study: National Centre for Energy Research and Development (NCERD), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria between November 2016 and September 2018.

Methodology: Wood waste (saw dust) from ten (10) selected tropical wood species sourced from sawmills in Benin City, Nigeria were subjected to proximate analysis, ultimate analysis as well as energy content study.

Results: Thermal conversion characteristics of low ash content (0.2 – 2.76%), very high volatile matter (87.51 – 90.94%), low moisture content (8.62 – 10.53%.), relatively high carbon, hydogen and oxygen contents as well as low nitrogen and sulphur contents were observed. Obtained calorific values were validated using three already existing correlations.

Conclusion: Among the 10 species studied, Afzelia africana (Apa) was found to be best suited for energy generation while Triplocyton scleroxylon (Obeche) was found to be least suited.