Briquette and biochar production from apple-pruned residue for energy recovery, soil fertility and water purification
摘要
Pruning apple trees is a crucial activity for enhancing apple quality and yield. It produces substantial biomass waste, which is incinerated openly, leading to the emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. The residue from pruned apple trees can be effectively managed by producing high-quality briquettes and charcoal. The pruned apple residue was measured to evaluate the sustainability of biomass. The briquette was manufactured from soft branches of pruned apple debris using a briquette machine, while biochar was generated by combusting hardwood from apple residue in an oxygen-deprived environment within a locally constructed apparatus. Pine needles were combined with apple leftovers to enhance their caloric content. An examination of the proximate, ultimate, and nutrient content of apple pruning residue, briquette, and biochar has been conducted to evaluate their potential for industrial and residential applications in a sustainable manner. The nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium concentration in biochar has been determined for its application as fertilizer in agriculture to enhance crop development. The efficacy of biochar in water filtration has also been evaluated. The apple pruning waste management through briquettes and biochar contributes to climate change mitigation. The entire process aligns with six UN Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 13. Besides garbage management, it will also create job and entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth.