Development and Characterization of Biomass Pellets Using Yard Waste

In Pakistan energy production from nuclear, hydro, and gas sources is about 99 %, and only 1 % from renewable energy resources. Biomass is an emerging renewable resource for Pakistan by converting loose biomass into pellets of high density. In this regard, biomass is getting more and more attention day by day due to its abundant availability. Due to improper management of biomass regarding transportation, handling, storing, and lack of awareness, its use for energy production is very low. The environmental and health effects of dumping and incineration techniques are becoming more dangerous for developing countries and rural communities’ day by day. The densification technique is an emerging technology nowadays for developing countries. Pellets development of yard waste is a new concept that can encounter energy demands in addition to reducing environmental pollution and sources of waste management. For this purpose, the biomass of yard waste shredded and then it was dried under sunlight or open drying to reduce the moisture content in the biomass material to less than 16% before being carbonized. Five samples at different moisture content levels were made and pellets were prepared from it. The results carried out by characterization of pellets show that yard waste pellets at 5 % moisture content have the highest calorific value of about 17.76 MJ/kg. Flue gas analysis was carried out and emissions from all were determined at all five-moisture content.