05/12/2025
Decided to fuel Pyrolysis hoping for a more efficient and time-effective production using Loose oil. Thank God that its a learning experience for us.It does not directly contaminate the coconut shells, but it can indirectly affect the quality of the charcoal if the combustion is incomplete or poorly controlled.
Main side effects on the Charcoal Quality.
✅ 1. Inconsistent Heating → Uneven Carbonization
Loose oil burns differently from diesel or wood.
If the temperature fluctuates:
Some shells become over-burnt (ash)
Others remain under-carbonized (brown, weak charcoal)
This results in lower-quality briquettes and uneven hardness.
✅ 2. Increased Smoke → Possible Tar Deposition
If the oil burns with black smoke (common with waste oil), the fumes may enter the drum if it is not fully sealed.
This can cause:
Tar-like residues on shells
Greasy smell
Slight oily coating on charcoal surface
This lowers adsorption capacity, ignition quality, and cleanliness of the final charcoal.
✅ 3. Contamination Risk if Burn Chamber Leaks
If the burner or fire box is not properly sealed, oil combustion fumes can mix with the pyrolysis gases.
This can lead to:
Chemical contamination of the charcoal
Strong unpleasant smell
Increased polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
Reduced suitability for food-grade briquettes
✅ 4. Lower Calorific Value of Charcoal
When oil burns at inconsistent temperatures, the shells may not fully carbonize.
Partially carbonized shells produce charcoal that:
Burns faster
Produces more smoke
Has lower heat output
Breaks apart easily
✅ 5. Higher Ash Content
Incomplete carbonization = more residual minerals.
Your briquettes may show:
Higher ash %
More dust during mixing
Weaker briquette strength
