Combustion Analysis of Solid Biomass Derived from Turmeric and Onion, using Nanoclay as a Binding Material, for a Sustainable Environment

The usage of fossil resources has promoted wealth accumulation, exacerbated the negative effects of climate change from GHG emissions, and jeopardized human safety. This research focuses on the utilization of locally generated waste from Turmeric Wastes (TW) and Onion Wastes (TW) for the production of biomass briquettes, employing 10% nanoclay powder as a binder. The biomass waste mixtures were prepared at different ratios, namely 0:100 (C1), 30:70 (C2), 60:40 (C3), 90:10 (C4) and 100:0 (C5), with a constant binder concentration. Densification can be used to turn these residues into elevated, fuel-efficient biomass feedstock. Analysis was carried out for wet content, content of volatile matter and content of fixed carbon. SEM evaluations with EDAX studies were done to identify the major elements available in the produced Turmeric waste - Onion waste briquettes. TGA and DSC investigation implicated the recognition of the burning stage of exothermic and endothermic peaks of the produced briquettes. The briquettes generated exhibit a range of total calorific values, spanning from 11.66 to 15.64 MJ/kg. Notably, these briquettes demonstrate an ignition time within the range of 3.3 to 4.0 seconds and a sustained burning duration lasting between 20 to 28 minutes. Consequently, the utilization of TW-OW in combination with 20% nanoclay binder presents a viable alternative energy source. This is attributable to the briquettes' commendable characteristics, including low moisture and ash content, coupled with a notably high calorific value.