Q. Biomass gasification is considered to be one of the sustainable solutions to the power crisis in India. In this context, which of the following statements is/are correct?
- Coconut shells, groundnut shells and rice husk can be used in biomass gasification.
- The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification consist of hydrogen and carbon monoxide only.
- The combustible gases generated from biomass gasification can be used for direct heat generation but not in internal combustion engines.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (UPSC Prelims 2012)
Answer:
1 only
Notes: The correct answer is [A] 1 only.
Biomass gasification is a process that converts organic or fossil-based carbon materials into carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide. This is achieved by reacting the material at high temperatures (above 700°C), without combustion, using a controlled amount of oxygen and/or steam.
- Feedstock for Gasification (Statement 1 is Correct):
Biomass gasifiers are quite versatile. Agricultural residues like coconut shells, groundnut shells, rice husk, wood waste, and even municipal solid waste can be used as feedstock. India has a high potential for this technology due to the abundance of these agro-residues.
- Composition of Producer Gas (Statement 2 is Incorrect):
The gas produced (often called producer gas or syngas) is a mixture. While hydrogen and carbon monoxide are the primary combustible components, it also contains methane and non-combustible gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen. The statement says "only," which makes it technically inaccurate.
- Usage in IC Engines (Statement 3 is Incorrect):
Producer gas is highly versatile. It can be used for direct heat generation, and it can also be used in internal combustion (IC) engines. It may replace diesel entirely in specially designed gas engines or be used in dual-fuel mode in existing diesel engines to reduce diesel consumption by 60–80%.