Characterization of Mixed Pellets Made from Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Waste as Pellet Fuel

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the production and properties of mixed pellets made from rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg) and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) waste with no added binder. Three different conditions of mixed pellets were developed to compare their chemical and physical properties to rubberwood pellets. The produced samples were subjected to both ultimate and proximate analyses. The contents of C, H, N, S, and Cl significantly increased with the increasing amount of refuse-derived fuel in the samples, resulting in reduction of the volatile matter. The mechanical durability of the pellet samples ranged between an average value of 98 and 99%. Mixed pellets containing 50% of rubberwood and 50% of refuse-derived fuel have improved heating values by 22.21% compared to rubberwood pellets. Moreover, mixed pellets having 50% of wood and 50% of refuse-derived fuel had the highest density and the highest energy compared to the other samples. Based on the findings of this study, it appears that the manufactured mixed pellets have the potential to be used as high-energy fuel.

Elemental Compositions of Wood Plastic Pellets Made from Sawdust and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Waste

“…The highest density was observed in the sample with 50% RDF addition. The findings were in line with the study by Laosena et al [23]. When the pellets had a higher RDF content, the water absorption (WA) of the samples was lower.…”

“…As a result, there is a limited understanding of the effects of co-pelletization on the performance of the produced pellets. Our previous study produced mixed pellets from rubberwood and RDF and tested their mechanical durability and calorific value (ultimate and proximate) [23]. Meanwhile, the goal of this research is to determine the physical properties, higher heating value (HHV), and elemental analysis of pellets made from a rubberwood and RDF mixture.…”