Palm kernel cake(PKC),a major by-product of the palm oil industry,is rich in non-starch polysaccharides.In this study,two polysaccharide fractions,precipitated with acetic acid(PPA)and ethanol(PPE),respectively,were e...Palm kernel cake(PKC),a major by-product of the palm oil industry,is rich in non-starch polysaccharides.In this study,two polysaccharide fractions,precipitated with acetic acid(PPA)and ethanol(PPE),respectively,were extracted from PKC using a 2 mol/L NaOH solution.The molecular weight,sugar composition,structural characteristics,morphology,antioxidant activity,as well as in vitro stimulated digestion were investigated in detail.The results revealed that due to its poor solubility of PPA in water,the detected molecular weight of PPA was only 2040 g/mol,which was significantly lower than that of PPE(65,300 g/mol).Although PPA and PPE had a similar sugar composition with varying contents,mannose was the predominant monosaccharide in both,accounting for 87.71%and 60.40%,respectively.Both PPA and PPE were primarily composed of crystalline mannan,consisting of mannopyranosyl units linked by(1→4)-β-glycosidic bonds,along with a small amount of lignin.PPA possibly contained a higher proportion of crystalline mannan,whereas PPE had a larger amount of arabinoxylan and galactomannan.Atomic force microscope revealed a stacked morphology for both PPA and PPE.PPA exhibited a higher scavenging rate against DPPH•and ABTS^(+)•but a weaker HO•scavenging activity and reducing power compared with PPE.Within the polysaccharide concentration range of 0.5-5.0 mg/mL,PPA and PPB demonstrated the strongest scavenging activity against ABTS^(+)•,with the highest scavenging rates exceeding 91%.However,PPA and PPB exhibited the weakest scavenging activity against HO•,with their highest HO•scavenging rates reaching only 44.91%and 55.86%,respectively.The antioxidant activities of both PPA and PPE were weaker than that of ascorbic acid.PPA remained almost stable in the in vitro simulated saliva fluid,while PPE exhibited weaker resistance to it.Both PPA and PPE exhibited weak resistance to the in vitro simulated gastric digestion fluids,but remained relatively stable in the in vitro simulated small-intestinal digestion fluid.The differences in physicochemical properties between PPA and PPE likely played an important role in their distinct biological activities.These findings suggest potential utilization of PKC in exploring dietary polysaccharides with favorable antioxidant activity and unique digestive characteristics.展开更多
Palm kernel meal(PKM)presents a challenge for non-ruminant livestock feeding due to its high fibre content predominantly in the form of mannan.Microbial fermentation offers a sustainable solution for fibre hydrolysis ...Palm kernel meal(PKM)presents a challenge for non-ruminant livestock feeding due to its high fibre content predominantly in the form of mannan.Microbial fermentation offers a sustainable solution for fibre hydrolysis in ligno-cellulosic biomass.In this study,a Bacillus subtilis strain(F6),with high mannanase secretion capability,was isolated from the environment.Fermentation of PKM with B.subtilis F6 resulted in at least a 10%reduction in neutral detergent fibre,decreasing from 78.4 to 60.9%within 24 h.Notably,B.subtilis F6 rapidly responded to PKM,producing significant mannanase activity within 6 h,facilitating quick fibre degradation.Transcriptome analysis identified key enzymes involved in this process,withβ-mannanase GmuG showing the highest increase in expression(45.2-fold)after fermentation.Purified recombinant GmuG exhibited strong PKM hydrolysis activity,primarily releasing mannobiose and mannotriose.Characterization of GmuG using locust bean gum as a substrate revealed an optimum temperature of 50-55°C and pH optima at 5.0 and 9.0.This study highlights the potential of B.subtilis F6 and its mannanase GmuG for efficient PKM fibre hydrolysis,and provides insights into their application in the valorization of mannan-rich bioresources.展开更多
The adulteration concentration of palm kernel oil(PKO)in virgin coconut oil(VCO)was quantified using near-infrared(NIR)hyperspectral imaging.Nowadays,some VCO is adulterated with lower-priced PKO to reduce production ...The adulteration concentration of palm kernel oil(PKO)in virgin coconut oil(VCO)was quantified using near-infrared(NIR)hyperspectral imaging.Nowadays,some VCO is adulterated with lower-priced PKO to reduce production costs,which diminishes the quality of the VCO.This study used NIR hyperspectral imaging in the wavelength region 900-1,650 nm to create a quantitative model for the detection of PKO contaminants(0-100%)in VCO and to develop predictive mapping.The prediction equation for the adulteration of VCO with PKO was constructed using the partial least squares regression method.The best predictive model was pre-processed using the standard normal variate method,and the coefficient of determination of prediction was 0.991,the root mean square error of prediction was 2.93%,and the residual prediction deviation was 10.37.The results showed that this model could be applied for quantifying the adulteration concentration of PKO in VCO.The prediction adulteration concentration mapping of VCO with PKO was created from a calibration model that showed the color level according to the adulteration concentration in the range of 0-100%.NIR hyperspectral imaging could be clearly used to quantify the adulteration of VCO with a color level map that provides a quick,accurate,and non-destructive detection method.展开更多
Fractionation of palm kernel oil （PKO） by short path distillation （SPD） at two feed flow rates （135 g/h and 195 g/h） and six distillation temperatures, TD,s （200, 210, 220, 230, 240 and 250 ℃） was investigate...Fractionation of palm kernel oil （PKO） by short path distillation （SPD） at two feed flow rates （135 g/h and 195 g/h） and six distillation temperatures, TD,s （200, 210, 220, 230, 240 and 250 ℃） was investigated. Other distillation parameters, such as vacuum pressure （0.001 mbar）, blade rotation speed （400 rpm） and temperature of the feed material （60 ℃） were kept constant. The fractionated products, known as residue and distillate, were analysed for physico-chemical properties including fatty acid composition （FAC）, triacylglycerol （TAG） composition, slip melting point （SMP）, thermal analysis by differential scanning calorimetry （DSC） and solid fat content （SFC）. Product yield was measured as well. Crystallisation behaviour of PKO and the fractionated products were studied by measurement of isothermal crystallisation, Tc,. at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 ℃. The distillates, collected at all fractionation temperatures, were enriched with caprylic, capric and lauric acids. These fractions were also concentrated with low molecular weight and C36 TAGs. Distillates obtained at higher TDis （230-250 ℃） exhibited higher in SMP and SFC. On the other hand, the residual oils collected at all fractionation temperatures contained higher amount of long-chain fatty acid and palmitic acid. These fractions were enriched with high molecular weight TAGs. Residues obtained at lower Tois （200-220 ℃） were low in SMP and comparable SFC with PKO. Changes in fatty acid and TAG composition resulted in different crystallisation behaviour of the fractions. Distillates collected at all fractionation temperatures crystallised in a sharper peak while residues obtained at higher T Dis （230-250 ℃） showed broader crystallisation peaks, as shown by the DSC thermograms.展开更多
First, the date palm kernel is used to produce granular activated carbon （GAC） by a physiochemical activation process. The process involves six steps： washing, drying, crushing, sieving, carbonization, and activati...First, the date palm kernel is used to produce granular activated carbon （GAC） by a physiochemical activation process. The process involves six steps： washing, drying, crushing, sieving, carbonization, and activation. Secondly, the ability of the produced GAC to remove pollutants is examined through batch experiments of residual chlorine adsorption whereas the equilibrium isotherm experimental data are tested for the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms equations. Thirdly, the experimental and theoretical study of dynamic adsorption process and the effect of major operating parameters on dynamic adsorption are investigated. The results show that the Langmuir isotherm gives the best fitting to experimental data, which indicates that the residual chlorine adsorption can be characterized by mono layer adsorption behavior. The produced GAC has a great potential as an adsorbent for residual chlorine in water systems and it can compete favorably with the conventional adsorbents. The Thomas extended model with combined mass transfer resistances is used for verifying the experimental results and the results show that the proposed model coincides well with the experimental data of the dynamic adsorption process.展开更多
Lithium-sulfur batteries(LSBs)have received much concern as emerging high-power energy storage system.Nevertheless,the low conductivity of sulfur and poly sulfide shuttle results in low rate capability and rapid capac...Lithium-sulfur batteries(LSBs)have received much concern as emerging high-power energy storage system.Nevertheless,the low conductivity of sulfur and poly sulfide shuttle results in low rate capability and rapid capacity decay,which seriously limit its commercial application.Here,facile,sustainable and cost-effective strategy for preparing heteroatom-doped porous activated carbon(PAC)derived from biomass palm kernel shell(PKS)was developed for high-performance LSB applications.The presence of N,P and S heteroatoms with modification of the surface polarity brings about large amounts of active sites and improved adsorption property compared to those of common carbon materials.The PAC sample possesses desirable specific surface area(SSA)(2760 m2·g-1)as well as pore volume(1.6 cm3·g-1).Besides,the good electrical conductivity of PAC endows the material with excellent rate performance.The PAC-S electrode with a 60%of sulfur loading has a desirable first discharge capacity(1045 mAh·g1,200 mA·g-1)with superb discharge capacity(869.8 mAh·g-1,100 th cycle)and cyclability(312.6 mAh·g-1,800 mA·g-1,1000 th cycle),which can be mainly ascribed to its unique porous properties and the good conductivity of PAC.展开更多
Palm kernel shell(PKS)biochars with different levels of carbon conversion were initially prepared using a tube furnace,after which the reactivity of each sample was assessed with a thermogravimetric analyzer under a C...Palm kernel shell(PKS)biochars with different levels of carbon conversion were initially prepared using a tube furnace,after which the reactivity of each sample was assessed with a thermogravimetric analyzer under a CO_2 atmosphere.The pore structure and carbon ordering of each biochar also examined,employing a surface area analyzer and a Raman spectroscopy.Thermogravimetric results showed that the gasification index R_sof the PKS biochar decreased from 0.0305 min^(-1) at carbon conversion(x)=20% to 0.0278 min^(-1)at x=40%.The expansion of micropores was the dominant process during the pore structure evolution,ad mesopores with sizes ranging from 6 to 20,48 to 50 nm were primarily generated during gasification under a CO_2/H_2O mixture.The proportion of amorphous carbon in the PKS biochar decreased significantly as x increased,suggesting that the proportion of ordered carbon was increased during the CO_2/H_2O mixed gasification.A significantly reduced total reaction time was observed when employing a CO_2/intermittent H_2O process along with an 83.46% reduction in the steam feed,compared with the amount required using a CO_2/H_2O atmosphere.展开更多
High fiber co-products from the copra and palm kernel industries are by-products of the production of coconut oil and palm kernel oil. The co-products include copra meal, copra expellers, palm kernel meal, and palm ke...High fiber co-products from the copra and palm kernel industries are by-products of the production of coconut oil and palm kernel oil. The co-products include copra meal, copra expellers, palm kernel meal, and palm kernel expellers. All 4 ingredients are very high in fiber and the energy value is relatively low when fed to pigs. The protein concentration is between 14 and 22 % and the protein has a low biological value and a very high Arg：Lys ratio. Digestibility of most amino acids is less than in soybean meal but close to that in corn. However, the digestibility of Lys is sometimes low due to Maillard reactions that are initiated due to overheating during drying.Copra and palm kernel ingredients contain 0.5 to 0.6 % P. Most of the P in palm kernel meal and palm kernel expellers is bound to phytate, but in copra products less than one third of the P is bound to phytate. The digestibility of P is, therefore, greater in copra meal and copra expellers than in palm kernel ingredients. Inclusion of copra meal should be less than 15 % in diets fed to weanling pigs and less than 25 % in diets for growing-finishing pigs. Palm kernel meal may be included by 15 % in diets for weanling pigs and 25 % in diets for growing and finishing pigs.Rice bran contains the pericarp and aleurone layers of brown rice that is removed before polished rice is produced.Rice bran contains approximately 25 % neutral detergent fiber and 25 to 30 % starch. Rice bran has a greater concentration of P than most other plant ingredients, but 75 to 90 % of the P is bound in phytate. Inclusion of microbial phytase in the diets is, therefore, necessary if rice bran is used. Rice bran may contain 15 to 24 % fat, but it may also have been defatted in which case the fat concentration is less than 5 %. Concentrations of digestible energy（DE） and metabolizable energy（ME） are slightly less in full fat rice bran than in corn, but defatted rice bran contains less than 75 % of the DE and ME in corn. The concentration of crude protein is 15 to 18 % in rice bran and the protein has a high biological value and most amino acids are well digested by pigs. Inclusion of rice bran in diets fed to pigs has yielded variable results and based on current research it is recommended that inclusion levels are less than 25 to 30 % in diets for growing-finishing pigs, and less than 20 % in diets for weanling pigs.However, there is a need for additional research to determine the inclusion rates that may be used for both full fat and defatted rice bran.展开更多
This paper reports a field survey undertaken to determine the availability of raw material for palm kernel oil commercial production for industrial applications. Both industrial and artisanal wastes from palm kernel o...This paper reports a field survey undertaken to determine the availability of raw material for palm kernel oil commercial production for industrial applications. Both industrial and artisanal wastes from palm kernel oil production were also surveyed as raw material (palm kernel seeds) for green energy production. Results of the field study show that 22% of palm kernel seeds (which represents tons of waste) resulting from palm oil processing plants are dumped while at the artisanal level, 80% of palm kernel seed waste is dumped. Analysis of field study data show<span>s</span><span> that large amounts of waste palm kernel seeds are available to enable large scale production of palm kernel oil (PKO) for desirable industrial applications in green energy production. The paper also reports on the physical and chemical properties of Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO). Palm kernel oil was extracted using mechanical press and solvent extraction. The palm kernel oil (PKO) from Cameroon was analyzed by standard physico-chemical methods. Results of the physical measurements show a specific gravity of PKO of 0.92 kg/L, viscosity of 26.03 cSt and at 5.93 cSt at 40<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C and 100<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C respectively, viscosity index of 185, pour point of 20<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, cloud point of 29<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, flash point of 200<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, aniline point of 105<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>F, diesel index of 23, cetane number of 27 and ASTM (American Standards for Testing and Materials) color of less than 2.5. Results of chemical analyses showed an acid val<span>ue of 17.95 mg KOH/g, free fatty <span>acid (FFA) content of 8.98 mg KOH/g, iodine value o</span></span></span><span><span><span>f 2.10</span><span> mg</span></span></span><span> </span><span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">/g</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, peroxide value of 2.10 meq/kg, ester value of 123.0 mg KOH/g, hydroxyl value of 93.4 mg OH/g, saponification value of 140.95 mg KOH/g and a sulfur content of 0.016% w/v, signifying low sulfur content. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed the palm kernel oil to be predominantly made up of glycerides of various fatty acids with higher proportions of C12 to C16 fatty acid residues. Cameroon PKO therefore has a broad spectrum of industrial applications by virtue of its rich physical and chemical properties.</span></span></span>展开更多
In tropical areas,palm oil production generates significant amounts of waste,including palm kernel shells.The use of this waste in the civil engineering sector,presents a very challenging task.In the present study,the...In tropical areas,palm oil production generates significant amounts of waste,including palm kernel shells.The use of this waste in the civil engineering sector,presents a very challenging task.In the present study,the production of lateritic soil(A-2 in GTR classification and A-7-6(9)in HRB classification)reinforced with palm kernel shells is considered.In order to improve their performances,these materials are mixed using the Fuller’s parabolic law.Moreover,experimental tests are used to characterize the physical and mechanical geotechnical properties of the lateritic soil.After characterizing the matrix(i.e.,lateritic soil)and the inclusions(i.e.,palm kernel shells)in their natural state,it is found that Avrankou’s lateritic soil has a high level of fine particles(56.6%),high plasticity(PI=21%)and low lift(ICBR=17%);which makes it unusable in the pavement layer.Results also prove that the mixture composed of 39%of lateritic soil volume and 61%of PKS with a CBR index equals to 30 and the mixture composed of 45%of lateritic soil,40%PKS and 15%of lagoon sand with a CBR index equals to 41 can be used as sub-base layer for roads for low and medium traffic,respectively.展开更多
From a total of 80 fertile eggs incubated naturally by female ducks, healthy sexed ducklings (n = 64, 32 males and 32 females ducklings) were randomly selected and allotted to four dietary treatments with four replica...From a total of 80 fertile eggs incubated naturally by female ducks, healthy sexed ducklings (n = 64, 32 males and 32 females ducklings) were randomly selected and allotted to four dietary treatments with four replicates, in a completely randomized design in order to evaluate the effect of varying levels of palm kernel meal (PKM) on performance of ducklings. The dietary treatments comprised R0-control ration, R50-50% PKM replacement, R75-75% PKM re-placement and R100-100% PKM replacement of soyabean meal. The main results revealed that the apparent digestive coefficients of dry matter (81.12%), organic matter (83.98%) and NDF (81.10%) were higher with the ration in which 50% (R50-50% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) of soybean was replaced by palm kernel meal. The highest feed intake in male was recorded with the ration containing 75% (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) of palm kernel. This same ration (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) equally induced the highest live weight and weight gain in females. The experimental design and arrangement is a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with two sexes and four levels of PKM. In males, the control ration without palm kernel meal induced the highest live weight and highest cumulative weight gain. The lowest feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) was recorded with the control ration regardless of the sex considered. The lowest cost of feed in-take and cost of production of a kg of body weight were obtained respectively in females and males fed on control ration. With the 50% (R50-50% PKM re-placement of soyabean meal) substitution of soybean meal, the carcass yield was the highest regardless of the sex. Serum content in ALAT, ASAT, creatinine, total cholesterol and total protein were not significantly (p > 0.05) affected by the incorporation of palm kernel meal into the diet. Urea serum content tends to decrease with the increasing level of palm kernel meal in feed. In conclusion, soybean meal can advantageously be replaced by palm kernel meal at the level of 75% (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) in Muscovy duck feed.展开更多
Bio-glycerol was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) through the transesterification procedure. Palm kernel oil extracted from palm kernel seeds using mechanical expression and solvent extraction was purif...Bio-glycerol was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) through the transesterification procedure. Palm kernel oil extracted from palm kernel seeds using mechanical expression and solvent extraction was purified and characterized by physico-chemical methods and used in the transesterification process to give biodiesel and bio-glycerol. The biodiesel was purified and characterized as reported in previous articles. Our focus in this article is on glycerol, an important by-product of the transesterification process which has potential pharmaceutical, cosmetic and engineering applications. The bio-glycerol was purified by acidification and the purified glycerol was subjected to physical and chemical characterization. The specific gravity of glycerol was obtained as 1.2 kg/L, viscosity at 40°C gave 1500 cSt and 500 cSt at 100°C;pH was 7.4;the flash point was 160°C, and the ASTM color was 2.0 before purification and zero after purification. The sulfur content was 0.016%w/v. This sulfur content is low thus posing no environment threat. The chemical composition of the synthesized bio-glycerol determined using IR spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) confirmed the known chemical structure of glycerol. The purification and analysis of bio-glycerol is important as it can find applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries inter alia.展开更多
The utilization of palm kernel shells (PKS) as an alternative to conventional materials for construction is desirable to promote sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to investigate the properties of l...The utilization of palm kernel shells (PKS) as an alternative to conventional materials for construction is desirable to promote sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to investigate the properties of lightweight concrete produced with different sizes of PKS of 6, 8, 10, 12 mm and mix (consisting of 25% each of the four sizes). RPK sizes were used to replace coarse aggregate in the concrete and cured for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The tests performed on the concrete are dry density, compressive strength, flexural strength, EDS and SEM. It was revealed that the densities of the concrete specimens were all less than 2000 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, which implies that the PKS concrete satisfied the requirement of lightweight concrete for structural application. The compressive strength of the 12 mm PKS concrete specimens at 28-day of curing was 10.2 MPa which was 4% to 15.9% better than the other PKS sizes concrete. The flexural strength of the 12 mm PKS concrete specimens at 28-day of curing was 2.85 MPa which was also 3.2% to 57.07% better than the other PKS sizes concrete. It was also revealed by the SEM analysis that there was a good bond between the palm kernel shells and the mortar. A high calcium-silicate content was found in the concrete which resulted in a Ca/Si ratio of 1.26 and Al/Si ratio of 0.11. The study therefore concludes that size variations of PKS as replacement of coarse aggregate have an influence on the properties of the lightweight concrete and recommends 12 mm PKS for use by construction practitioners for lightweight concrete structural application</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">.展开更多
Moisture diffusion during soaking of palm kernel shell (<strong><em>Elaeis guineensis</em></strong>) aggregate concerning DURA variety of Cameroon was studied. Parameters like percentage of wat...Moisture diffusion during soaking of palm kernel shell (<strong><em>Elaeis guineensis</em></strong>) aggregate concerning DURA variety of Cameroon was studied. Parameters like percentage of water gain at the saturation point and the effective moisture diffusivity were the main purposes. The knowledge of the behavior of those shells in presence of the liquid during the realization of the composite materials is important. Gravimetric method with discontinuous control of the mass of sample after immersion at the ambient temperature was used. Palm kernel shell aggregate of two origins and two considerable sizes respectively in mm: Sizes ≥ 16 and 12.5 ≤ Sizes < 16 were used. The rate of water absorption was found to be [6.18% and 11.74%] respectively for Tombel PKS and Bafang PKS and moisture diffusivity of [5.19 × 10<sup>-8</sup> and 7.90 × 10<sup>-9</sup> m<sup>2</sup>/s] was also determined according to their irregular shapes by fitted soaking data in Becker’s model.展开更多
We present in this work how to use the dura palm kernel shell powders as loads for the elaboration by extrusion of PVC tubes. The transformation of dura palm kernel shells into micronized shell powder as well as its c...We present in this work how to use the dura palm kernel shell powders as loads for the elaboration by extrusion of PVC tubes. The transformation of dura palm kernel shells into micronized shell powder as well as its characterization was the subject of recent work. We carried out, the formulations by using the industrial scales of precision, the mixtures of the instrants with an industrial machine of mark HENSHLLE N˚2 MAIN 570762, the routine tests by ATG/DSC then by IRTF, the extrusion of the tubes with an extruder twin-screw with 9 rooms of transformation finally the tests of conformity by the observations and the analyses. We obtained for the formulations the dosage of 0%, 4.01%, 12.54%, 23.03%, 32.01%, 38.01%, 51.02% representing the percentage of hull powder in the mixture, the machine mixing gave perfectly homogeneous powders, the routine tests showed that the hull powder keeps all its properties until the end of the shaping whatever the percentage of hulls contained in the PVC, the extrusion gave tubes for each formulation and the conformity tests gave perfectly round tubes of diameter 90 × 82 mm, a coloration going from white grey at 0% to dark black at 51.02% showing the influence of the carbon black and the color of the shell powder according to its proportion. The infrared of the tubes obtained shows for each formulation a variation of the CH<sub>2</sub> and CH bonds and a decrease of the −OH bonds. The thermogravimetric analyses and the differential calorimetric analyses of the tubes of each formulation, show each time that the quantity of shell powders in the mixture influences the PVC tubes obtained. Thus, we obtain a variation of the phase temperatures according to the dosage, giving from 108.72<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C to 76.56<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C for the glass transition temperature and from 494.71<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C to 414.56<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C for the melting temperature, at the DSC and a progressive decrease of the mass following the heat absorption with each time 4 phases instead of 5 for the unloaded PVC tubes at the ATG according to the dosage.展开更多
Methyl or ethyl esters of vegetable oils are the reliable alternative fuels for the petroleum diesel, because their properties are very nearer to the petroleum diesel. But the flash point and auto-ignition temperature...Methyl or ethyl esters of vegetable oils are the reliable alternative fuels for the petroleum diesel, because their properties are very nearer to the petroleum diesel. But the flash point and auto-ignition temperatures are very high for these esters. CR （compression ratio） is one of the parameter which influences the atomization and vaporization of fuel. It is also caused for improvement in the turbulence which leads to better combustion. In this work the single cylinder diesel engine was tested at different compression ratios i.e. 16.5：1, 17.5：1, 18.5：1, 19：1 with palm kernel methyl ester without modifications. On increasing compression ratio closeness of molecules of air increases and fuel is injected into that air caused for better combustion. The inbuilt oxygen of methyl or ethyl ester will participate in the combustion and causes for reduction of HC and CO. Better compression ratio for an engine with particular fuel provides satisfactory thermal efficiency and less environmental pollution. In the investigations, for palm kernel methyl ester, 18.5：1 compression ratio is preferable on single cylinder Dl-diesel engine.展开更多
This work presents the physical and thermal characterization of the dura palm kernel powder of Cameroon for their use as fillers for polymers composites. The powders of palm kernel were obtained using a percussion gri...This work presents the physical and thermal characterization of the dura palm kernel powder of Cameroon for their use as fillers for polymers composites. The powders of palm kernel were obtained using a percussion grinder mill with an industrial microniser which allowed obtaining a powder less than 50 μm with an apparent density between 0,505 ≤ ρ ≤ 0,680 g/cm3 at 1.56 of relative humidity. The infrared of the powder of palm kernel shows the presence of phenols groups with a large band around 3341 cm-1, -C-H at 2917.02 cm-1 and -C-O at 1040 cm-1 as the main peaks. The polyvinyl chloride of infrared obtained shows the presence of -C-Cl, -CH2 and CH as the mains peaks. The infrared of 12.5% of palm kernel powder with polyvinyl chloride shows an increase of the CH2 and CH bonds and a decrease of the -OH bonds. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetric analysis of powders, polyvinyl chloride and mixture showed that the mixing powders are intermediate between the polyvinyl chloride and palm kernel powder. The powder decreased the phase temperatures of the mixture from 98.58℃ to 95℃ for the glass transition temperature and from 515℃ to 459℃ for the crystallization temperature. The thermogravimetric curves of palm kernel powder and polyvinyl chloride have showed that these materials lose their different masses in three different phases, and the one of composite (mixture of polyvinyl chloride with 12.5% of palm kernel powder) in two different phases.展开更多
The optimum bleaching parameters (clay dose and bleaching time) for palm kernel oil were determined using alkaline activated clay locally sourced in Nigerian. Activation was carried out using NaOH and KOH. The raw and...The optimum bleaching parameters (clay dose and bleaching time) for palm kernel oil were determined using alkaline activated clay locally sourced in Nigerian. Activation was carried out using NaOH and KOH. The raw and activated clay samples were characterized using XRD and XRF. Bleached oil was analyzed for % colour reduction (%CR) and percentage free fatty acid (FFA) content before and after bleaching. Alkaline activation resulted to total dissolution of Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions in the octahedral sheet. The activation also affected the tetrahedral sheet by reducing the % composition of the silica and alumina ion after the modification. The results showed that alkaline activation had significant effect on mineralogical and chemical composition of the clay samples. The optimum bleaching conditions (clay dosage and bleaching time) of 3%/weight of oil and 30 mins resulted in 33.3% CR and %FFA of 2.2. It was discovered that NaOH activated clay resulted to higher %CR while KOH activated clay shows affinity for reduced %FFA but at higher concentration of 5 M. This research has further established that alkaline activated clays are feasible alternative for acid activated clays in vegetable oil bleaching.展开更多
The ultrastructure and physicochemical and thermal properties of Palm Kernel Shells (PKS) in comparison with Coconut Kernel Shells (CKS) were investigated herein. Powder samples were prepared and characterized using S...The ultrastructure and physicochemical and thermal properties of Palm Kernel Shells (PKS) in comparison with Coconut Kernel Shells (CKS) were investigated herein. Powder samples were prepared and characterized using Surface Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Chemical and elemental constituents, as well as thermal performance were assessed by Van Soest Method, TEM/EDXA and SEM/EDS techniques. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) were also performed for thermal characterization. SEM/EDS and TEM/EDXA revealed that most of the PKS and CKS materials are composed of particles with irregular morphology;these are mainly amorphous phases of carbon/oxygen with small amounts of K, Ca and Mg. The DSC data permitted to derive the materials’ thermal transition phases and the relevant characteristic temperatures and physical properties. Thermal Transition phases of PKS observed herein are consistent with the chemical composition obtained and are similar to those of CKS. Nonetheless, TGA/DTG showed that the combustion characteristics of PKS are higher than those of CKS. Taken together, our results reveal that PKS have nanopores and can be efficiently used for 3D printing and membrane filtration applications. Moreover, the chemical constituents found in PKS samples are in agreement with those reported in the literature for material structural applications and thus, present potential use of PKS in these applications.展开更多
Biolubricant was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) by double transesterification, producing methyl esters in the first stage which were then transesterified with trimethylolpropane (TMP) to give the PKO ...Biolubricant was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) by double transesterification, producing methyl esters in the first stage which were then transesterified with trimethylolpropane (TMP) to give the PKO biolubricant in the presence of a base catalyst obtained from plantain peelings (municipal waste). The yields from both catalysts were significantly similar (48% for the locally produced and 51% for the conventional) showing that the locally produced catalyst could be valorized. The synthesized biolubricant was characterized by measuring its physical and chemical properties. The specific gravity of 1.2, ASTM color of 1.5, cloud point of 0°C, pour point of -9°C, viscosities at 40°C of 509.80 cSt and at 100°C of 30.80 cSt, viscosity index of 120, flash point greater than 210°C and a fire point greater than 220°C were obtained. This synthesized biolubricant was found to be comparable to commercial T-46 petroleum lubricant sample produced industrially from mineral sources. We have therefore used local materials to produce a biolubricant using a cheap base catalyst produced from municipal waste.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.22068025).
文摘Palm kernel cake(PKC),a major by-product of the palm oil industry,is rich in non-starch polysaccharides.In this study,two polysaccharide fractions,precipitated with acetic acid(PPA)and ethanol(PPE),respectively,were extracted from PKC using a 2 mol/L NaOH solution.The molecular weight,sugar composition,structural characteristics,morphology,antioxidant activity,as well as in vitro stimulated digestion were investigated in detail.The results revealed that due to its poor solubility of PPA in water,the detected molecular weight of PPA was only 2040 g/mol,which was significantly lower than that of PPE(65,300 g/mol).Although PPA and PPE had a similar sugar composition with varying contents,mannose was the predominant monosaccharide in both,accounting for 87.71%and 60.40%,respectively.Both PPA and PPE were primarily composed of crystalline mannan,consisting of mannopyranosyl units linked by(1→4)-β-glycosidic bonds,along with a small amount of lignin.PPA possibly contained a higher proportion of crystalline mannan,whereas PPE had a larger amount of arabinoxylan and galactomannan.Atomic force microscope revealed a stacked morphology for both PPA and PPE.PPA exhibited a higher scavenging rate against DPPH•and ABTS^(+)•but a weaker HO•scavenging activity and reducing power compared with PPE.Within the polysaccharide concentration range of 0.5-5.0 mg/mL,PPA and PPB demonstrated the strongest scavenging activity against ABTS^(+)•,with the highest scavenging rates exceeding 91%.However,PPA and PPB exhibited the weakest scavenging activity against HO•,with their highest HO•scavenging rates reaching only 44.91%and 55.86%,respectively.The antioxidant activities of both PPA and PPE were weaker than that of ascorbic acid.PPA remained almost stable in the in vitro simulated saliva fluid,while PPE exhibited weaker resistance to it.Both PPA and PPE exhibited weak resistance to the in vitro simulated gastric digestion fluids,but remained relatively stable in the in vitro simulated small-intestinal digestion fluid.The differences in physicochemical properties between PPA and PPE likely played an important role in their distinct biological activities.These findings suggest potential utilization of PKC in exploring dietary polysaccharides with favorable antioxidant activity and unique digestive characteristics.
基金supported by Wilmar International Ltd(WIL)as a research and development projectWei Li Ong is supported by Singapore Economic Development Board Industrial Postgraduate Programme(EDB-IPP).
文摘Palm kernel meal(PKM)presents a challenge for non-ruminant livestock feeding due to its high fibre content predominantly in the form of mannan.Microbial fermentation offers a sustainable solution for fibre hydrolysis in ligno-cellulosic biomass.In this study,a Bacillus subtilis strain(F6),with high mannanase secretion capability,was isolated from the environment.Fermentation of PKM with B.subtilis F6 resulted in at least a 10%reduction in neutral detergent fibre,decreasing from 78.4 to 60.9%within 24 h.Notably,B.subtilis F6 rapidly responded to PKM,producing significant mannanase activity within 6 h,facilitating quick fibre degradation.Transcriptome analysis identified key enzymes involved in this process,withβ-mannanase GmuG showing the highest increase in expression(45.2-fold)after fermentation.Purified recombinant GmuG exhibited strong PKM hydrolysis activity,primarily releasing mannobiose and mannotriose.Characterization of GmuG using locust bean gum as a substrate revealed an optimum temperature of 50-55°C and pH optima at 5.0 and 9.0.This study highlights the potential of B.subtilis F6 and its mannanase GmuG for efficient PKM fibre hydrolysis,and provides insights into their application in the valorization of mannan-rich bioresources.
基金supported by the Thailand Research Fund through the Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D.Program(PHD/0225/2561)the Faculty of Engineering,Kamphaeng Saen Campus,Kasetsart University,Thailand。
文摘The adulteration concentration of palm kernel oil(PKO)in virgin coconut oil(VCO)was quantified using near-infrared(NIR)hyperspectral imaging.Nowadays,some VCO is adulterated with lower-priced PKO to reduce production costs,which diminishes the quality of the VCO.This study used NIR hyperspectral imaging in the wavelength region 900-1,650 nm to create a quantitative model for the detection of PKO contaminants(0-100%)in VCO and to develop predictive mapping.The prediction equation for the adulteration of VCO with PKO was constructed using the partial least squares regression method.The best predictive model was pre-processed using the standard normal variate method,and the coefficient of determination of prediction was 0.991,the root mean square error of prediction was 2.93%,and the residual prediction deviation was 10.37.The results showed that this model could be applied for quantifying the adulteration concentration of PKO in VCO.The prediction adulteration concentration mapping of VCO with PKO was created from a calibration model that showed the color level according to the adulteration concentration in the range of 0-100%.NIR hyperspectral imaging could be clearly used to quantify the adulteration of VCO with a color level map that provides a quick,accurate,and non-destructive detection method.
文摘Fractionation of palm kernel oil （PKO） by short path distillation （SPD） at two feed flow rates （135 g/h and 195 g/h） and six distillation temperatures, TD,s （200, 210, 220, 230, 240 and 250 ℃） was investigated. Other distillation parameters, such as vacuum pressure （0.001 mbar）, blade rotation speed （400 rpm） and temperature of the feed material （60 ℃） were kept constant. The fractionated products, known as residue and distillate, were analysed for physico-chemical properties including fatty acid composition （FAC）, triacylglycerol （TAG） composition, slip melting point （SMP）, thermal analysis by differential scanning calorimetry （DSC） and solid fat content （SFC）. Product yield was measured as well. Crystallisation behaviour of PKO and the fractionated products were studied by measurement of isothermal crystallisation, Tc,. at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 ℃. The distillates, collected at all fractionation temperatures, were enriched with caprylic, capric and lauric acids. These fractions were also concentrated with low molecular weight and C36 TAGs. Distillates obtained at higher TDis （230-250 ℃） exhibited higher in SMP and SFC. On the other hand, the residual oils collected at all fractionation temperatures contained higher amount of long-chain fatty acid and palmitic acid. These fractions were enriched with high molecular weight TAGs. Residues obtained at lower Tois （200-220 ℃） were low in SMP and comparable SFC with PKO. Changes in fatty acid and TAG composition resulted in different crystallisation behaviour of the fractions. Distillates collected at all fractionation temperatures crystallised in a sharper peak while residues obtained at higher T Dis （230-250 ℃） showed broader crystallisation peaks, as shown by the DSC thermograms.
基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(No. 51078074)
文摘First, the date palm kernel is used to produce granular activated carbon （GAC） by a physiochemical activation process. The process involves six steps： washing, drying, crushing, sieving, carbonization, and activation. Secondly, the ability of the produced GAC to remove pollutants is examined through batch experiments of residual chlorine adsorption whereas the equilibrium isotherm experimental data are tested for the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms equations. Thirdly, the experimental and theoretical study of dynamic adsorption process and the effect of major operating parameters on dynamic adsorption are investigated. The results show that the Langmuir isotherm gives the best fitting to experimental data, which indicates that the residual chlorine adsorption can be characterized by mono layer adsorption behavior. The produced GAC has a great potential as an adsorbent for residual chlorine in water systems and it can compete favorably with the conventional adsorbents. The Thomas extended model with combined mass transfer resistances is used for verifying the experimental results and the results show that the proposed model coincides well with the experimental data of the dynamic adsorption process.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.21671170,21673203,21805136 and 21201010)the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK20170999)+2 种基金Program for New Century Excellent Talents of the University in China(No.NCET-13-0645)the Six Talent Plan(No.2015-XCL-030)Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions。
文摘Lithium-sulfur batteries(LSBs)have received much concern as emerging high-power energy storage system.Nevertheless,the low conductivity of sulfur and poly sulfide shuttle results in low rate capability and rapid capacity decay,which seriously limit its commercial application.Here,facile,sustainable and cost-effective strategy for preparing heteroatom-doped porous activated carbon(PAC)derived from biomass palm kernel shell(PKS)was developed for high-performance LSB applications.The presence of N,P and S heteroatoms with modification of the surface polarity brings about large amounts of active sites and improved adsorption property compared to those of common carbon materials.The PAC sample possesses desirable specific surface area(SSA)(2760 m2·g-1)as well as pore volume(1.6 cm3·g-1).Besides,the good electrical conductivity of PAC endows the material with excellent rate performance.The PAC-S electrode with a 60%of sulfur loading has a desirable first discharge capacity(1045 mAh·g1,200 mA·g-1)with superb discharge capacity(869.8 mAh·g-1,100 th cycle)and cyclability(312.6 mAh·g-1,800 mA·g-1,1000 th cycle),which can be mainly ascribed to its unique porous properties and the good conductivity of PAC.
基金Supported by the Key Project of the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(ZR2015QZ02)the Key Research&Development Program of Shandong Province(2016GSF117005)+1 种基金the introduction of scientific and technological innovation team of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region(2016)Foundation of State Key Laboratory of High-efficiency Utilization of Coal and Green Chemical Engineering(2017-K22)
文摘Palm kernel shell(PKS)biochars with different levels of carbon conversion were initially prepared using a tube furnace,after which the reactivity of each sample was assessed with a thermogravimetric analyzer under a CO_2 atmosphere.The pore structure and carbon ordering of each biochar also examined,employing a surface area analyzer and a Raman spectroscopy.Thermogravimetric results showed that the gasification index R_sof the PKS biochar decreased from 0.0305 min^(-1) at carbon conversion(x)=20% to 0.0278 min^(-1)at x=40%.The expansion of micropores was the dominant process during the pore structure evolution,ad mesopores with sizes ranging from 6 to 20,48 to 50 nm were primarily generated during gasification under a CO_2/H_2O mixture.The proportion of amorphous carbon in the PKS biochar decreased significantly as x increased,suggesting that the proportion of ordered carbon was increased during the CO_2/H_2O mixed gasification.A significantly reduced total reaction time was observed when employing a CO_2/intermittent H_2O process along with an 83.46% reduction in the steam feed,compared with the amount required using a CO_2/H_2O atmosphere.
文摘High fiber co-products from the copra and palm kernel industries are by-products of the production of coconut oil and palm kernel oil. The co-products include copra meal, copra expellers, palm kernel meal, and palm kernel expellers. All 4 ingredients are very high in fiber and the energy value is relatively low when fed to pigs. The protein concentration is between 14 and 22 % and the protein has a low biological value and a very high Arg：Lys ratio. Digestibility of most amino acids is less than in soybean meal but close to that in corn. However, the digestibility of Lys is sometimes low due to Maillard reactions that are initiated due to overheating during drying.Copra and palm kernel ingredients contain 0.5 to 0.6 % P. Most of the P in palm kernel meal and palm kernel expellers is bound to phytate, but in copra products less than one third of the P is bound to phytate. The digestibility of P is, therefore, greater in copra meal and copra expellers than in palm kernel ingredients. Inclusion of copra meal should be less than 15 % in diets fed to weanling pigs and less than 25 % in diets for growing-finishing pigs. Palm kernel meal may be included by 15 % in diets for weanling pigs and 25 % in diets for growing and finishing pigs.Rice bran contains the pericarp and aleurone layers of brown rice that is removed before polished rice is produced.Rice bran contains approximately 25 % neutral detergent fiber and 25 to 30 % starch. Rice bran has a greater concentration of P than most other plant ingredients, but 75 to 90 % of the P is bound in phytate. Inclusion of microbial phytase in the diets is, therefore, necessary if rice bran is used. Rice bran may contain 15 to 24 % fat, but it may also have been defatted in which case the fat concentration is less than 5 %. Concentrations of digestible energy（DE） and metabolizable energy（ME） are slightly less in full fat rice bran than in corn, but defatted rice bran contains less than 75 % of the DE and ME in corn. The concentration of crude protein is 15 to 18 % in rice bran and the protein has a high biological value and most amino acids are well digested by pigs. Inclusion of rice bran in diets fed to pigs has yielded variable results and based on current research it is recommended that inclusion levels are less than 25 to 30 % in diets for growing-finishing pigs, and less than 20 % in diets for weanling pigs.However, there is a need for additional research to determine the inclusion rates that may be used for both full fat and defatted rice bran.
文摘This paper reports a field survey undertaken to determine the availability of raw material for palm kernel oil commercial production for industrial applications. Both industrial and artisanal wastes from palm kernel oil production were also surveyed as raw material (palm kernel seeds) for green energy production. Results of the field study show that 22% of palm kernel seeds (which represents tons of waste) resulting from palm oil processing plants are dumped while at the artisanal level, 80% of palm kernel seed waste is dumped. Analysis of field study data show<span>s</span><span> that large amounts of waste palm kernel seeds are available to enable large scale production of palm kernel oil (PKO) for desirable industrial applications in green energy production. The paper also reports on the physical and chemical properties of Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO). Palm kernel oil was extracted using mechanical press and solvent extraction. The palm kernel oil (PKO) from Cameroon was analyzed by standard physico-chemical methods. Results of the physical measurements show a specific gravity of PKO of 0.92 kg/L, viscosity of 26.03 cSt and at 5.93 cSt at 40<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C and 100<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C respectively, viscosity index of 185, pour point of 20<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, cloud point of 29<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, flash point of 200<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>C, aniline point of 105<span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:" font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#ffffff;"=""><span style="color:#4F4F4F;font-family:"font-size:14px;white-space:normal;background-color:#FFFFFF;">°</span></span>F, diesel index of 23, cetane number of 27 and ASTM (American Standards for Testing and Materials) color of less than 2.5. Results of chemical analyses showed an acid val<span>ue of 17.95 mg KOH/g, free fatty <span>acid (FFA) content of 8.98 mg KOH/g, iodine value o</span></span></span><span><span><span>f 2.10</span><span> mg</span></span></span><span> </span><span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">I</span><sub><span style="font-family:Verdana;">2</span></sub><span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">/g</span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, peroxide value of 2.10 meq/kg, ester value of 123.0 mg KOH/g, hydroxyl value of 93.4 mg OH/g, saponification value of 140.95 mg KOH/g and a sulfur content of 0.016% w/v, signifying low sulfur content. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed the palm kernel oil to be predominantly made up of glycerides of various fatty acids with higher proportions of C12 to C16 fatty acid residues. Cameroon PKO therefore has a broad spectrum of industrial applications by virtue of its rich physical and chemical properties.</span></span></span>
文摘In tropical areas,palm oil production generates significant amounts of waste,including palm kernel shells.The use of this waste in the civil engineering sector,presents a very challenging task.In the present study,the production of lateritic soil(A-2 in GTR classification and A-7-6(9)in HRB classification)reinforced with palm kernel shells is considered.In order to improve their performances,these materials are mixed using the Fuller’s parabolic law.Moreover,experimental tests are used to characterize the physical and mechanical geotechnical properties of the lateritic soil.After characterizing the matrix(i.e.,lateritic soil)and the inclusions(i.e.,palm kernel shells)in their natural state,it is found that Avrankou’s lateritic soil has a high level of fine particles(56.6%),high plasticity(PI=21%)and low lift(ICBR=17%);which makes it unusable in the pavement layer.Results also prove that the mixture composed of 39%of lateritic soil volume and 61%of PKS with a CBR index equals to 30 and the mixture composed of 45%of lateritic soil,40%PKS and 15%of lagoon sand with a CBR index equals to 41 can be used as sub-base layer for roads for low and medium traffic,respectively.
文摘From a total of 80 fertile eggs incubated naturally by female ducks, healthy sexed ducklings (n = 64, 32 males and 32 females ducklings) were randomly selected and allotted to four dietary treatments with four replicates, in a completely randomized design in order to evaluate the effect of varying levels of palm kernel meal (PKM) on performance of ducklings. The dietary treatments comprised R0-control ration, R50-50% PKM replacement, R75-75% PKM re-placement and R100-100% PKM replacement of soyabean meal. The main results revealed that the apparent digestive coefficients of dry matter (81.12%), organic matter (83.98%) and NDF (81.10%) were higher with the ration in which 50% (R50-50% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) of soybean was replaced by palm kernel meal. The highest feed intake in male was recorded with the ration containing 75% (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) of palm kernel. This same ration (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) equally induced the highest live weight and weight gain in females. The experimental design and arrangement is a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement with two sexes and four levels of PKM. In males, the control ration without palm kernel meal induced the highest live weight and highest cumulative weight gain. The lowest feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) was recorded with the control ration regardless of the sex considered. The lowest cost of feed in-take and cost of production of a kg of body weight were obtained respectively in females and males fed on control ration. With the 50% (R50-50% PKM re-placement of soyabean meal) substitution of soybean meal, the carcass yield was the highest regardless of the sex. Serum content in ALAT, ASAT, creatinine, total cholesterol and total protein were not significantly (p > 0.05) affected by the incorporation of palm kernel meal into the diet. Urea serum content tends to decrease with the increasing level of palm kernel meal in feed. In conclusion, soybean meal can advantageously be replaced by palm kernel meal at the level of 75% (R75-75% PKM replacement of soyabean meal) in Muscovy duck feed.
文摘Bio-glycerol was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) through the transesterification procedure. Palm kernel oil extracted from palm kernel seeds using mechanical expression and solvent extraction was purified and characterized by physico-chemical methods and used in the transesterification process to give biodiesel and bio-glycerol. The biodiesel was purified and characterized as reported in previous articles. Our focus in this article is on glycerol, an important by-product of the transesterification process which has potential pharmaceutical, cosmetic and engineering applications. The bio-glycerol was purified by acidification and the purified glycerol was subjected to physical and chemical characterization. The specific gravity of glycerol was obtained as 1.2 kg/L, viscosity at 40°C gave 1500 cSt and 500 cSt at 100°C;pH was 7.4;the flash point was 160°C, and the ASTM color was 2.0 before purification and zero after purification. The sulfur content was 0.016%w/v. This sulfur content is low thus posing no environment threat. The chemical composition of the synthesized bio-glycerol determined using IR spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) confirmed the known chemical structure of glycerol. The purification and analysis of bio-glycerol is important as it can find applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries inter alia.
文摘The utilization of palm kernel shells (PKS) as an alternative to conventional materials for construction is desirable to promote sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to investigate the properties of lightweight concrete produced with different sizes of PKS of 6, 8, 10, 12 mm and mix (consisting of 25% each of the four sizes). RPK sizes were used to replace coarse aggregate in the concrete and cured for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The tests performed on the concrete are dry density, compressive strength, flexural strength, EDS and SEM. It was revealed that the densities of the concrete specimens were all less than 2000 kg/m</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">3</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">, which implies that the PKS concrete satisfied the requirement of lightweight concrete for structural application. The compressive strength of the 12 mm PKS concrete specimens at 28-day of curing was 10.2 MPa which was 4% to 15.9% better than the other PKS sizes concrete. The flexural strength of the 12 mm PKS concrete specimens at 28-day of curing was 2.85 MPa which was also 3.2% to 57.07% better than the other PKS sizes concrete. It was also revealed by the SEM analysis that there was a good bond between the palm kernel shells and the mortar. A high calcium-silicate content was found in the concrete which resulted in a Ca/Si ratio of 1.26 and Al/Si ratio of 0.11. The study therefore concludes that size variations of PKS as replacement of coarse aggregate have an influence on the properties of the lightweight concrete and recommends 12 mm PKS for use by construction practitioners for lightweight concrete structural application</span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">.
文摘Moisture diffusion during soaking of palm kernel shell (<strong><em>Elaeis guineensis</em></strong>) aggregate concerning DURA variety of Cameroon was studied. Parameters like percentage of water gain at the saturation point and the effective moisture diffusivity were the main purposes. The knowledge of the behavior of those shells in presence of the liquid during the realization of the composite materials is important. Gravimetric method with discontinuous control of the mass of sample after immersion at the ambient temperature was used. Palm kernel shell aggregate of two origins and two considerable sizes respectively in mm: Sizes ≥ 16 and 12.5 ≤ Sizes < 16 were used. The rate of water absorption was found to be [6.18% and 11.74%] respectively for Tombel PKS and Bafang PKS and moisture diffusivity of [5.19 × 10<sup>-8</sup> and 7.90 × 10<sup>-9</sup> m<sup>2</sup>/s] was also determined according to their irregular shapes by fitted soaking data in Becker’s model.
文摘We present in this work how to use the dura palm kernel shell powders as loads for the elaboration by extrusion of PVC tubes. The transformation of dura palm kernel shells into micronized shell powder as well as its characterization was the subject of recent work. We carried out, the formulations by using the industrial scales of precision, the mixtures of the instrants with an industrial machine of mark HENSHLLE N˚2 MAIN 570762, the routine tests by ATG/DSC then by IRTF, the extrusion of the tubes with an extruder twin-screw with 9 rooms of transformation finally the tests of conformity by the observations and the analyses. We obtained for the formulations the dosage of 0%, 4.01%, 12.54%, 23.03%, 32.01%, 38.01%, 51.02% representing the percentage of hull powder in the mixture, the machine mixing gave perfectly homogeneous powders, the routine tests showed that the hull powder keeps all its properties until the end of the shaping whatever the percentage of hulls contained in the PVC, the extrusion gave tubes for each formulation and the conformity tests gave perfectly round tubes of diameter 90 × 82 mm, a coloration going from white grey at 0% to dark black at 51.02% showing the influence of the carbon black and the color of the shell powder according to its proportion. The infrared of the tubes obtained shows for each formulation a variation of the CH<sub>2</sub> and CH bonds and a decrease of the −OH bonds. The thermogravimetric analyses and the differential calorimetric analyses of the tubes of each formulation, show each time that the quantity of shell powders in the mixture influences the PVC tubes obtained. Thus, we obtain a variation of the phase temperatures according to the dosage, giving from 108.72<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C to 76.56<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C for the glass transition temperature and from 494.71<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C to 414.56<span style="white-space:normal;">˚</span>C for the melting temperature, at the DSC and a progressive decrease of the mass following the heat absorption with each time 4 phases instead of 5 for the unloaded PVC tubes at the ATG according to the dosage.
文摘Methyl or ethyl esters of vegetable oils are the reliable alternative fuels for the petroleum diesel, because their properties are very nearer to the petroleum diesel. But the flash point and auto-ignition temperatures are very high for these esters. CR （compression ratio） is one of the parameter which influences the atomization and vaporization of fuel. It is also caused for improvement in the turbulence which leads to better combustion. In this work the single cylinder diesel engine was tested at different compression ratios i.e. 16.5：1, 17.5：1, 18.5：1, 19：1 with palm kernel methyl ester without modifications. On increasing compression ratio closeness of molecules of air increases and fuel is injected into that air caused for better combustion. The inbuilt oxygen of methyl or ethyl ester will participate in the combustion and causes for reduction of HC and CO. Better compression ratio for an engine with particular fuel provides satisfactory thermal efficiency and less environmental pollution. In the investigations, for palm kernel methyl ester, 18.5：1 compression ratio is preferable on single cylinder Dl-diesel engine.
文摘This work presents the physical and thermal characterization of the dura palm kernel powder of Cameroon for their use as fillers for polymers composites. The powders of palm kernel were obtained using a percussion grinder mill with an industrial microniser which allowed obtaining a powder less than 50 μm with an apparent density between 0,505 ≤ ρ ≤ 0,680 g/cm3 at 1.56 of relative humidity. The infrared of the powder of palm kernel shows the presence of phenols groups with a large band around 3341 cm-1, -C-H at 2917.02 cm-1 and -C-O at 1040 cm-1 as the main peaks. The polyvinyl chloride of infrared obtained shows the presence of -C-Cl, -CH2 and CH as the mains peaks. The infrared of 12.5% of palm kernel powder with polyvinyl chloride shows an increase of the CH2 and CH bonds and a decrease of the -OH bonds. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetric analysis of powders, polyvinyl chloride and mixture showed that the mixing powders are intermediate between the polyvinyl chloride and palm kernel powder. The powder decreased the phase temperatures of the mixture from 98.58℃ to 95℃ for the glass transition temperature and from 515℃ to 459℃ for the crystallization temperature. The thermogravimetric curves of palm kernel powder and polyvinyl chloride have showed that these materials lose their different masses in three different phases, and the one of composite (mixture of polyvinyl chloride with 12.5% of palm kernel powder) in two different phases.
文摘The optimum bleaching parameters (clay dose and bleaching time) for palm kernel oil were determined using alkaline activated clay locally sourced in Nigerian. Activation was carried out using NaOH and KOH. The raw and activated clay samples were characterized using XRD and XRF. Bleached oil was analyzed for % colour reduction (%CR) and percentage free fatty acid (FFA) content before and after bleaching. Alkaline activation resulted to total dissolution of Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions in the octahedral sheet. The activation also affected the tetrahedral sheet by reducing the % composition of the silica and alumina ion after the modification. The results showed that alkaline activation had significant effect on mineralogical and chemical composition of the clay samples. The optimum bleaching conditions (clay dosage and bleaching time) of 3%/weight of oil and 30 mins resulted in 33.3% CR and %FFA of 2.2. It was discovered that NaOH activated clay resulted to higher %CR while KOH activated clay shows affinity for reduced %FFA but at higher concentration of 5 M. This research has further established that alkaline activated clays are feasible alternative for acid activated clays in vegetable oil bleaching.
文摘The ultrastructure and physicochemical and thermal properties of Palm Kernel Shells (PKS) in comparison with Coconut Kernel Shells (CKS) were investigated herein. Powder samples were prepared and characterized using Surface Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Chemical and elemental constituents, as well as thermal performance were assessed by Van Soest Method, TEM/EDXA and SEM/EDS techniques. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) were also performed for thermal characterization. SEM/EDS and TEM/EDXA revealed that most of the PKS and CKS materials are composed of particles with irregular morphology;these are mainly amorphous phases of carbon/oxygen with small amounts of K, Ca and Mg. The DSC data permitted to derive the materials’ thermal transition phases and the relevant characteristic temperatures and physical properties. Thermal Transition phases of PKS observed herein are consistent with the chemical composition obtained and are similar to those of CKS. Nonetheless, TGA/DTG showed that the combustion characteristics of PKS are higher than those of CKS. Taken together, our results reveal that PKS have nanopores and can be efficiently used for 3D printing and membrane filtration applications. Moreover, the chemical constituents found in PKS samples are in agreement with those reported in the literature for material structural applications and thus, present potential use of PKS in these applications.
文摘Biolubricant was synthesized from Cameroon palm kernel oil (PKO) by double transesterification, producing methyl esters in the first stage which were then transesterified with trimethylolpropane (TMP) to give the PKO biolubricant in the presence of a base catalyst obtained from plantain peelings (municipal waste). The yields from both catalysts were significantly similar (48% for the locally produced and 51% for the conventional) showing that the locally produced catalyst could be valorized. The synthesized biolubricant was characterized by measuring its physical and chemical properties. The specific gravity of 1.2, ASTM color of 1.5, cloud point of 0°C, pour point of -9°C, viscosities at 40°C of 509.80 cSt and at 100°C of 30.80 cSt, viscosity index of 120, flash point greater than 210°C and a fire point greater than 220°C were obtained. This synthesized biolubricant was found to be comparable to commercial T-46 petroleum lubricant sample produced industrially from mineral sources. We have therefore used local materials to produce a biolubricant using a cheap base catalyst produced from municipal waste.
