The Utilization of Densified Agricultural Residues in Lime Burning

Abstract

Due to the high wood fuel and charcoal prices and mounting pressures on deforestation, many developing countries have focussed their attention towards, renewable sources of energy; Sudan is no exception. Researches have been made in the use of densified agricultural residues in household sectors and in limited industrial services. The objective of this experimental study is to practically determine the possibility of burning limestone in a traditional lime kiln at Omdurman, using Groundnut shell and Cotton stalk briquettes as alternative fuels. The experiment was performed using three fuels namely Groundnut shell, Cotton Stalk briquettes and Charcoal Duga in one firing trial, due to the unavailability of the kiln for needed period of experiment. The results of each fuel burnt were nevertheless taken separately for comparison. The comparison was based on quality of limes produced, amount of quick lime output, amount of hydrated lime produced, energy efficiency of burning process and cost of production. After chemical analysis of quick lime and calculated results, the alternative fuel briquettes proved to be a success in the lime burning process as they produced very satisfactory results when compared with the Charcoal fines used in the lime kiln. Thus encouraging the use of a new fuel in the lime industry.