Thermo - Chemical Characteristics of Gasifier Fuels: Potential Gasifier Fuels in Lake Victoria Basin

All countries in the Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) depend mostly on hydroelectric power for provision of energy. Gasification technology has a high potential for reducing biomass energy consumption while increasing access to modern energy services. The key aspect of failure in gasification is insufficient adaption of gasification equipment to fuels characteristics, fuel specification and inadequate material choice. The study investigated thermo-chemical characterization of six biomass fuels, namely Pinus caribaea, Calitris robusta, Cupressus lustitanica, Eucalyptus grandis, Pinus patula and sugarcane bagasse in selected regions of LVB. Ultimate analysis was done using Flash 2000 elemental analyser. Moisture content, ash content and volatile matter were determined in oven and muffle furnace while heating values were determined using Gallenkamp calorimeter. The result will contribute towards increased energy production and generating knowledge on adaptation of small to medium scale gasification technology by the community.

Geoffrey O. Mosiori, MSC: Studied Chemistry at Kenyatta University. Lecturer at Murang'a University college, Kenya