Design and Manufacture of a Biomass Stove Using Palm Kernel Shells as Fuel to Promote Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Cooking has been integral to mankind’s survival and through that, there has been many efforts put in place to facilitate it. This study investigated the utilization of palm kernel shells as fuel for a specially manufactured stove known as the Biomass stove. Aware of the problems associated with the burning of wood fuel, the Ghanaian society is in exploration for cleaner and greener alternatives; one of these alternatives is the use of palm kernel shells as fuel for the biomass stove. The qualitative research approach was fundamental, in this research as descriptive, experimental and studio-based research methods were employed in collecting useful data from a sample size of 30 out of an accessible population of 100 participants using cooking stoves in KNUST campus in Kumasi. Data gathered from the experiments conducted proved vital in the designing of the stove and selection of suitable fuel to use. It was found that biomass resources must be explored to discover alternative fuels for efficient cooking. Also, the principles of heat transfer should always be critically analyzed so that designs for cooking stoves can be energy efficient, while promoting environmental sustainability in their use.