Researchers are making strides in the battle against carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by tapping into an unexpected resource: cocoa pod husk waste. A recent study led by Olayemi O. Omole from the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at Afe Babalola University has unveiled a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for producing activated carbon from this agricultural byproduct, which could have significant implications for the energy sector.
The process begins with pyrolyzing cocoa pod husks and activating them using potassium hydroxide (KOH). This transformation yields activated carbon that is not only efficient but also boasts a promising pore structure and high carbon content, essential for effective CO2 adsorption. The research, published in ‘Discover Environment’, highlights the potential of cocoa pod husk biomass as a viable precursor for carbon capture technologies.
Omole’s team meticulously characterized the activated carbon using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Their findings revealed that this activated carbon can achieve an impressive CO2 removal rate of 99.5% under optimal conditions—specifically, a carbonization temperature of 700 °C, a bed height of 5 cm, and an adsorption time of just one minute.
“The activated carbon prepared has a good pore structure with high carbon content that supported CO2 adsorption,” said Omole, emphasizing the material’s effectiveness. The study also identified that the Freundlich model best describes the adsorption process, indicating a strong potential for commercial applications.
For the energy sector, this research opens up new avenues for utilizing agricultural waste in carbon capture technologies. Companies looking to enhance their sustainability efforts could explore partnerships with cocoa producers to convert waste into valuable activated carbon, thereby reducing emissions while also supporting local economies.
The findings of this study not only underscore the importance of innovative waste management solutions but also highlight the role of agricultural byproducts in addressing climate change challenges. As industries increasingly seek sustainable practices, the cocoa pod husk could become a cornerstone in the development of greener technologies.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at Afe Babalola University here: lead_author_affiliation.
