Erdiwansyah, Asri Gani, Hera Desvita, Rizalman Mamat, Mohd Fairusham Ghazali
This study investigates the impact of pyrolysis temperature variations (150 °C− 190 °C) on biocoke’s calorific value and chemical composition derived from empty fruit bunches (EFB). The primary objective of this research was to optimize the pyrolysis conditions to enhance the fuel properties of biocoke and understand the structural changes that occur during thermal processing. A Bomb Calorimeter was used to measure the heating value of the biocoke, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was employed to characterize its functional groups. Pyrolysis was conducted under a controlled pressure of 50 t using a hydraulic press to ensure uniform compaction and thermal treatment. These findings indicate that the calorific value of biocoke is highly dependent on temperature, with the highest value recorded at 190 °C (4,262.03 Cal·g−1). This value is comparable to that of certain lignocellulosic biomass fuels, such as wood pellets, which typically exhibit calorific values of 4,000–4,500 Cal·g−1, highlighting the potential of EFB-derived biocoke as a competitive alternative. FTIR analysis revealed significant shifts in the O–H and N–H vibrations, indicating modifications in the hydrogen interactions and moisture content. Consistent C–H vibrations suggest changes in the hydrocarbon structure, whereas new peaks at 170 °C and above indicate the stabilization or transformation of functional groups. These results provide insights into optimizing biocoke production for sustainable energy applications and highlight the potential of converting EFB waste into high-energy-density solid fuels. Copyright © 2025. Publishing services by Elsevier B.V.
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management, Universitas Serambi Mekkah, Banda Aceh, 23245, Indonesia; Centre for Automotive Engineering Centre, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Pekan, 26600, Malaysia; Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Research Center for Food Technology and Processing, National Research and Innovation Agenc (BRIN), Yogyakarta, 55861, Indonesia; Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, 727000, Viet Nam; Centre for Research in Advanced Fluid & Processes, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al Sultan Abdullah, Kuantan, 26300, Malaysia
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