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A Comparison of Feedstock from Agricultural Biomass and Face Masks for the Production of Biochar through Co-Pyrolysis

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  • Yasirah Yusoff

    (Institute of Sustainable Energy, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia)

  • Ee Sann Tan

    (Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia)

  • Firas Basim Ismail

    (Institute of Power Engineering, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia)

Abstract

This study explores the pyrolysis of disposable face masks to produce chemicals suitable for use as fuel, addressing the environmental concern posed by single-use face masks. Co-pyrolysis of biomass with face mask plastic waste offers a promising solution. The research focuses on the co-pyrolysis of biomass and face masks, aiming to characterise the properties for analysis and optimisation. Selected agricultural biomass and face mask plastic waste were subjected to temperatures from 250 °C to 400 °C for co-pyrolysis. Slow pyrolysis was chosen because face masks cannot be converted into useful bioproducts at temperatures exceeding 400 °C. The samples were tested in four different ratios and the study was conducted under inert conditions to ensure analysis accuracy and reliability. The results indicate that face masks exhibit a remarkable calorific value of 9310 kcal/kg. Face masks show a two-fold increase in calorific value compared with biomass alone. Additionally, the low moisture content of face masks (0.10%) reduces the heating value needed to remove moisture, enhancing their combustion efficiency. This study demonstrates the potential of co-pyrolysis with face masks as a means of generating valuable chemicals for fuel production, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Yasirah Yusoff & Ee Sann Tan & Firas Basim Ismail, 2023. "A Comparison of Feedstock from Agricultural Biomass and Face Masks for the Production of Biochar through Co-Pyrolysis," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(22), pages 1-16, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:22:p:16000-:d:1281357
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