Physical and Chemical Properties of Philippine Coal Blended with Torrefied Biomass from Rice (Oryza sativa) Straw

Abstract

Looking at the feasibility of using rice (Oryza sativa) straw locally known as “dayami”, which the Philippines is quantitatively abundant, for power generation could help farmers reduce production cost and minimize the postharvest waste. Hence, this study’s objective is to provide a detailed knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of Philippine coal blended with torrefied rice (O. sativa) straw to efficiently use biomass for energy production. Proximate, ultimate, and calorific value analyses showed that rice (O. sativa) straw like other biomass resources are appropriate to meet the requirement of thermochemical process. When compared to pure coal, agricultural residues biomass like rice (O. sativa) straw has lower moisture and ash content, likewise nitrogen and sulfur are very low as well. Generally, blending Philippine coal with torrefied rice (O. sativa) straw would improve its quality in terms of its combustion properties thereby making these combinations of coal and biomass advantageous.