Mathematical modeling of combustion characteristics of agricultural waste briquettes

Abstract

Rapid population increase coupled with industrialization has led to rise in global energy demand leading to skyrocketing of energy prices. Diversification in energy resources is essential to reduce overdependence on certain resources. Agricultural wastes remain a promising energy resource to be exploited. Laboratory experimental analysis is time consuming and costly. This fueled the adoption of modelling as an alternative to laboratory analysis. Different models such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD), artificial neural network (ANN), and ANFIS fuzzy logic have been used by various researchers. Buckingham pie theorem together with MATLAB was used in this research to evaluate the properties and combustion characteristics of assorted agricultural wastes. The properties modelled were; porosity, density, shatter resistance, higher heating values, burnout time, burning rate, ignition time and efficiency. The factors that affect each of the properties negatively and positively were determined from the models. The significance of each property and characteristics were articulated. The limitations and assumptions of the models were also highlighted. It is recommended that further research incorporating artificial intelligence in the models needs to be exploited aid in reduction of experimental analysis costs and time. Other agricultural wastes which have not been characterized for need to exploited. This will further reduce overdependence on conventional resources such as fossil fuels which are not only getting depleted at an alarming rate but also led to environmental degradation.