Clean Energy Technologies

Design and Construction and Testing of Biogas Stove

Rabiu Ahmad Abubakar

The Institute of Mechanical Design, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36956/cet.v1i1.2015

Received: 1 December 2024 | Revised: 5 January 2025 | Accepted: 10 January 2025 | Published Online: 22 January 2025

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Abstract

The performance of a domestic biogas stove was evaluated under controlled laboratory conditions to assess its thermal efficiency, gas consumption rate, and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. The biogas used—comprising 60% methane and 40% carbon dioxide—simulated typical output from anaerobic digestion of organic waste. A standardized water boiling test, conducted three times, simulated cooking conditions. Key parameters such as gas consumption, boiling time, final water temperature, and ambient conditions were recorded. Thermal efficiency was determined by comparing the heat transferred to water with the energy content of the consumed biogas. The stove showed consistent performance, averaging a gas consumption rate of 1.5 L/min and a thermal efficiency of 54.3%, indicating effective energy use. CO emissions averaged 13 ppm, remaining below WHO indoor air quality limits, suggesting efficient combustion and safe indoor operation. Minor performance variations were attributed to operational factors like flame control and pot placement. Based on the observed consumption rate, a household cooking for about two hours daily would require 180 liters of biogas per day, ensuring a stable supply. Overall, the stove proved to be an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional biomass fuels. It offers a cleaner, safer cooking solution for rural and off-grid households by reducing harmful emissions and improving indoor air quality. These findings support the broader adoption of biogas technology for sustainable domestic energy use.

Keywords: Renewable Energy; Stove Design; Clean Cooking Technology; Sustainable Energy Systems

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