Locust Beans Pod as Feedstock for Pyrolysis: Physicochemical and Thermal Characterization
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Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable energy sources and effective agricultural waste management has increased interest in the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass for thermochemical conversion processes. This study evaluates the suitability of African locust bean pod as a potential feedstock for pyrolysis through comprehensive physicochemical and thermal characterization. Proximate analysis revealed a moisture content of 5.5 wt%, volatile matter content of 76 wt%, ash content of 13 wt%, and fixed carbon content of 11 wt%, indicating favourable characteristics for thermal conversion. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified the presence of hydroxyl, aliphatic C–H, carbonyl, aromatic, and ether functional groups associated with cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin structures. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) demonstrated a three-stage degradation pattern, with the primary decomposition occurring between 200 and 400°C and a maximum degradation rate observed within the temperature range of 350–380°C. The thermal behaviour confirmed that the major devolatilization process occurs within the temperature range commonly employed for pyrolysis operations. The combined physicochemical and thermal characterization results establish locust bean pod as a promising lignocellulosic biomass feedstock for pyrolysis, with significant potential for bio-oil production, agricultural waste valorization, and renewable energy generation. The findings provide essential baseline data for process optimization, reactor design, and future bioenergy applications involving locust bean pod biomass.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Tukur, R.B., Aroke, U.O., Ahmed, S.I. (Author)
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