Thermal and mechanical characteristics of local firewood species and resulting charcoal produced by slow pyrolysis

Abstract The main source of fuel for domestic cooking applications in Sub-Saharan Africa is either locally available firewood species or charcoal produced by slow pyrolysis these species. However, very few studies exist that characterize and quantify physical properties, burning rates, peak temperatures, calorific values typical resulting fuels pyrolysis. This study evaluated the mechanical thermal properties from five tree namely: Dichrostachys cinerea , Morus Lactea Piliostigma thonningii Combretum molle Albizia grandibracteata . Characterization was done scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, bomb calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, bulk density measurements, durability, water boiling absorption tests. SEM images showed development macropores on after Peak temperatures during combustion ranged between 515.5–621.8 °C 741.6–785.9 °C, respectively. Maximum flame 786.9–870.8 634.4–737.3 charcoal. Bulk densities were higher than those Drop strengths all 100% while 93.7 100%. Water tests indicated performed better low amounts due to maximum obtained firewood.