OVERVIEW OF HYDROTHERMAL CARBONIZATION TECHNIQUE FOR SOLID BIOENERGY PRODUCTION IN AFRICA

Abstract

Access to affordable and sustainable energy sources is crucial for the growth and development of African countries. Bioenergy, particularly from biomass, plays a vital role in meeting the energy demands in many developing regions, such as sub-Saharan Africa. However, technological barriers hinder the widespread utilization of biofuels as energy sources. Thermochemical conversion processes, including hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), offer promising solutions for efficient biomass conversion. HTC has gained significant attention globally but its implementation in Africa remains limited. This paper provides an overview of the theoretical concepts of HTC process as it is cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for converting biomass into high-carbon energy dense products. The evolution, mechanism, and potential of HTC are discussed, highlighting its ability to process biomass with high moisture content without prior drying. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of renewable energy sources in global sustainable development initiatives and recognizes the need for African countries to explore and adopt hydrothermal carbonization technology.