Bonding Properties and Morphological Characteristics of Torrefied Pelletised Biochar from Palm Oil Industry’s Residues Empty Fruit Bunch

Abstract

The utilization of palm oil industry’s residues on empty fruit bunch (EFB), for biochar production has gained considerable attention due to its potential in waste management and sustainable resource utilization. In this study, the investigation of bonding properties and morphological characteristics of torrefied pelletised biochar derived from EFB was done through torrefaction process which is a thermal treatment process under low oxygen conditions to enhance the energy density and stability of the biochar. Torrefied pelletised biochar was formed from the torrefied EFB biochar utilising the strand size of 750µm, holding temperature of 274°C, and residence time of 90 minutes, and later mixed with a binding agent at proportions (10%–30% of weight). The bonding properties of torrefied pelletised biochar were further analysed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for identifying functional groups present in the torrefied pelletised biochar. Morphological characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyse the surface morphology and pore structure. Results indicate that torrefaction significantly improved the bonding properties of the torrefied biochar but not for the pelletised biochar. SEM images revealed a more compact and homogeneous structure with enhancing the porosity of the torrefied biochar in preparing them as pelletised due to the help of pores size for binder. FTIR analysis demonstrated alterations in functional groups, suggesting chemical transformations induced by torrefaction. The enhanced bonding properties and morphological characteristics contribute to its suitability for practical implementation in agricultural and environmental sectors, thereby promoting sustainable waste management practices and resource utilization.