CO2 Absorption Using Lime Catalyst in an Enhanced Downdraft Fixed Bed Gasifier

The demand for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels is critical given the current energy situation. This study explores the gasification of eucalyptus wood as a renewable biomass, offering a viable solution to lessen the dependency on non-renewable energy sources and contribute to a more sustainable energy future. Through experimental investigations, the effects of varying air flow rates (ranging from 0.5 to 0.8 m/s) on gas composition in fixed bed downdraft gasifiers are examined. At an optimal airflow rate of 0.5 m/s, lower combustion temperatures yield a higher hydrogen concentration, enhancing the syngas quality. However, oxygen and CO2 concentrations rise as air flow rates increase, diminishing the hydrogen content. The incorporation of a lime catalyst successfully absorbs approximately 20% of the CO2, though it also reduces hydrogen levels by 29%. These findings underscore the potential of eucalyptus wood as an efficient biomass for gasification while highlighting the need for future research to optimize catalyst performance, improve CO2 capture, and enhance overall gasification efficiency and gas quality.