Conversion of palm kernel shell to sustainable energy and the effect of wet synthesized nanoparticles of iron on its thermal degradation kinetics

Pisifera Palm kernel shells (PPKS) were torrefied at 260, 280, and 300 °C, and ASTM methods were used to determine variations in their ultimate and proximate parameters. Iron nanoparticles were synthesized via coprecipitation of FeCl₃.6H₂O and NaBH₄, characterized, and used as catalysts in the thermal degradation of torrefied PPKS. Torrefied PPKS samples showed moderate MC (9.26–10.73 %), high carbon content (46.74 %), AC (2.77–3.39 %), VM (49.48–54.12 %), and FC (31.76 %–38.49 %). At 300 °C, the calorific value of the untreated PPKS increased by 13.3 % to 18.02 kJ/mol, making it suitable as a solid fuel. An increase in heating rate enhances faster decomposition and higher devolatization of torrefied PPKS at lower temperatures. Hemicellulosic components degrade at a reduced temperature as compared to cellulosic and lignin components. The 47.58 % Fe in the nanoparticle made it a good catalyst for the thermal degradation of PPKS. The E_a expended on catalyzed torrefied PPKS was lower as compared to torrefied PPKS calculated via the Coats-Redfern kinetic model. Torrefaction improved untreated PPKS by achieving higher fuel quality and calorific value, suitable physical properties, and a suitable chemical composition. The nano-Fe was suitable to reduce E_a needed for the thermal degradation of torrefied PPKS.