Design, fabrication and performance evaluation of a multi-feed gasifier stove for low income earners in Ghana

Abstract

In Ghana, firewood and charcoal are converted to heat energy traditionally by devices that are inefficient and unsustainable. The use of these devices have devastating consequences on the climate and human health. This study designed, produced and evaluated a multi-feed biomass gasifier stove (MFGS) which relies on multiple types of biomass such as agricultural, industrial and forest waste as feedstock. The prototype of the MFGS was evaluated in the laboratory and the field to establish its level of efficiency and cleanliness. The MFGS recorded a maximum thermal efficiency and minimum CO emission of 35.8% and 0.23 g/min as compared to 30.0% and 2.32 g/min, respectively, recorded by the best Ghanaian traditional biomass stove (Gyapa). The total global warming impact recorded by the MFGS represent up to reduction of 99% of that of Gyapa making it a tool for fighting global warming and reducing the health risk of users of wood fuel in Ghana.

Keywords

• Renewable energy
• biomass
• cookstoves
• gasifier
• biochar
• D. T. Pham, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom