ENERGY CHARACTERIZATION OF KOLA NUT INNER SHELL AS ALTERNATIVE BIOMASS FUEL

ABSTRACT Previous studies on biomass energy have explored various agricultural residues such as rice husks, coconut shells, and palm kernel shells for their energy potential. However, Kola Nut Inner Shell (KNIS), an abundant waste product in Nigeria remains largely uncharacterized and underutilized. This research addresses this gap by assessing the physicochemical and thermal properties of KNIS to determine its viability as a renewable energy source. The study aims to provide scientific data to support the inclusion of KNIS in Nigeria’s bioenergy portfolio. KNIS was sourced from Songbe in Osun State and was sundried to reduce moisture content that can lead to spoilage and mold growth before milling with a burr mill. To evaluate KNIS as a biomass feedstock, a comprehensive analysis was conducted according to standard procedures. Proximate and ultimate analyses were used to determine Moisture Content (MC), Ash Content (AC), Volatile Matter (VM), Fixed Carbon (FC), and elemental composition such as Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Nitrogen (N), Sulphur (S), and Oxygen (O). Calorific value was calculated empirically and compared with experimental result. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was conducted to assess thermal degradation patterns of KNIS, while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to identify functional chemical groups of KNIS. These tests aimed to establish the suitability of KNIS for energy applications such as pyrolysis and combustion. The results indicate that KNIS has favorable fuel properties with low MC (12.52%), high VM (72.73%), moderate FC (8.25%), and low AC (6.50%). Elemental analysis of the KNIS revealed high C (41.74%) and low S (0%), supporting clean combustion. Calculated value of the KNIS resulted in 14.205KJ/g which is lower compared to experimental value of 18.744 kJ/g, indicating likely experimental enhancement. that KNIS is a high-rank biomass. TGA showed stable thermal decomposition indicating that KNIS possesses good thermal stability under the tested conditions, and FTIR spectra revealed energy-rich compounds such as lignin and hydrocarbons which contribute to the observed thermal behavior and high energy content of KNIS. These results demonstrate that KNIS has potentials for energy applications. This study demonstrates that kola nut inner shell is a promising, locally available biomass resource with strong potential for renewable energy applications due to its high energy contents. Utilizing this waste biomass will enhance sustainable energy strategies, reduce environmental pollution, and support decentralized energy solutions in Nigeria