Preference choice of tree species for higher calorific value of charcoal: A case in semiarid region of Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was designed to determine charcoal consumers’ preference of tree species and the calorific value of the charcoal produced in semi-arid region  such as Goro District in South-East Ethiopia. A total of 134 households were selected proportionally using systematic sampling techniques. Samples were  selected from five tree species such as Acacia nilotica, Acacia etbaica, Pappea capensis, Acacia seyal, and Acokanthera schimperi that processed into  charcoal. The calorific value and fixed carbon of the charcoal specimens were computed through experimental determination of their moisture, volatile  matter, and ash content, and analyzed using inferential statistics. The results shows that consumers are purchase charcoal made from Acacia nilotica,  Acacia etbaica, Acacia seyal, Pappea capensis, and Acokanthera chimperi in a decreasing order of their preference. Laboratory analysis indicated the  following result: moisture (4.220±0.84 – 9.8% ± 0.2), ash (3.2 ± 0.08 – 6.0 ± 0.05%), volatile matter (28.9 ± 0.66 – 32.56% ± 0.83), and fixed carbon content  (51.6 ± 0.67– 63.7 ± 0.21%). The calorific value of Acacia nilotica, Acacia etbaica, Pappea capensis, Acacia seyal, and Acokanthera schimperi were found to  be 31.5 ± 0.26, 30.6 ± 0.96, 29.9 ± 0.58, 29.6 ± 0.28, and 28.6 ± 0.05 KJ/g, respectively, and there is statistically significant difference (P-value<0.05). It is  further concluded that except some variation community preference on tree species for charcoal production match with experimental results. In areas    where fuel woods are available with proper management and afforestation, it is recommended to use high calorific value charcoal with modern stoves.