Status : Verified
| Personal Name | Caabay, Job Y. |
|---|---|
| Resource Title | Valorization of Cashew Nut Shell Cake Wastes (Anacardium occidentale L.) Through Torrefaction for the Production of Solid Fuel |
| Date Issued | 16 June 2025 |
| Abstract | This study explored the valorization of cashew nut shell (CNS) cake, an agro-industrial by-product, through oxidative torrefaction to enhance its performance as a solid biofuel. Despite their abundance, CNS cakes remain underutilized for energy applications. Oxidative torrefaction, a thermal treatment in the presence of limited oxygen, was conducted at 200, 250, and 300°C for 20, 40, and 60 minutes to assess changes in the fuel properties. The process significantly altered the lignocellulose composition: mainly extractives and hemicellulose were reduced, while cellulose and lignin were concentrated, improving the combustion behavior. Fuel quality was enhanced by reductions in moisture and volatile matter (75.64% to 41.40%) along with oxygen and hydrogen, and increased in fixed carbon (22.89% to 55.43%) with carbon. The 300°C for 20 minutes condition was identified as optimal, achieving the highest energy–mass co-benefit index (EMCI) of 20.64%, with a higher heating value (HHV) of 24.34 MJ/kg, energy density ratio (EDR) of 1.28, mass yield (MY) of 72.46%, and energy yield (EY) of 93.10%. Torrefying beyond this point led to marginal HHV gains, but significant losses in fuel mass and energy retention, indicating diminishing returns. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that severe torrefaction improved thermal stability and reduced reactivity, whereas less severe conditions provided better ignitability. These results demonstrate that oxidative torrefaction transformed the structural and physicochemical components of the CNS cake, enhancing the bioenergy potential and combustion profile, while maintaining a substantial portion of usable fuel. This approach offers a much lower ash and emissions alternative to fossil fuels. Moreover, valorizing the CNS cake through torrefaction supports viable waste management and contributes to circular bioenergy systems. |
| Degree Course | Master of Science in Energy Engineering |
| Language | English |
| Keyword | Torrefaction, Cashew Nut Shell Cake, Biomass Energy |
| Material Type | Thesis/Dissertation |
Preliminary Pages
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Category : P - Author wishes to publish the work personally.
Access Permission : Limited Access