Impact of Allanblackia Floribunda Seed Shells and its Novel Utilization for Energy Growth

Abstract

Industrialization is key to societal development and the utilization of abundant residues from organic waste helps to reduce overreliance on inorganic materials for energy and construction. In this research, a novel Allanblackia Floribunda seed shell was discovered as an alternative biocatalyst to existing biocatalyst. The ground fine powder of Allanblackia Floribunda Seed Shells was analyzed with a Thermogravimetric analyzer, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, X-ray Fluorescence, and Ultimate, and Proximate analysis to ascertain its thermal treatment suitability as biocatalyst for biodiesel making. The results indicate that the fine powder of Allanblackia Floribunda Seed Shells attained stable calcination at 740.24 ^oC at the third decomposition which is ideal for biodiesel production but can be calcined up to the fourth decomposition at 993.80 ^oC leaving a residue of 4.124% via the Thermogravimetric analyzer. The Differential Scanning Calorimetry showed that the maximum oxidation temperature of the biomaterial aligns with the third decomposition point of the Thermogravimetric analyzer. The calorific value derived from the mathematical model gave 23.65 MJ/kg indicating an acceptable energy potential source compared to other oil seed shells. Furthermore, X-ray fluorescence revealed the qualities of the compounds and elements present. The elements identified via X-ray fluorescence-FP were Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Nb, Sn, Zr, Ta, Zn, Ni, Co and O. Thus, the presence of these metals and few non-metals (S and P) can be utilized for biocatalyst production to boost the making of biodiesel, thereby contributing unique alternative biomaterial for energy sectors to strive globally.