From Waste to Fuel

Research is underway here at Shuddham to explore the feasibility of converting a portion of our segregated waste stream (principally paper, cardboard, and sawdust) into biomass fuel briquettes. Early prototypes, pictured above, were formed under consdierable pressure using an old motorcycle cylinder and piston, and a hydrolic press.

A more traditional forming-and-drying method is also being tested.

The formulations are being combustion-tested at Aprovecho Research Center — the world’s leading experts in biomass cookstove engineering — to ensure that the briquettes do not give off undue quantities of carbon monoxide and harmful particulates when burned.

Biomass remains the most common cooking fuel in the villages of India — including those around Pondicherry. In fact, most of the Shuddham “Beautifiers” use biomass cookstoves in their own kitchens. It would be a nice re-use of our combustible waste stream to create cooking fuel.