Numerical Simulation And Model Validation Of Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches Slow Pyrolysis Yield Prediction

Arina Fatharani; Yuwana Yuwana; Firmansyah Firmansyah; Evanila Silvia; Bosman Sidebang

doi:10.37676/agritepa.v13i1.10941

Arina Fatharani Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Bengkulu
Yuwana Yuwana Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Bengkulu
Firmansyah Firmansyah Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Bengkulu
Evanila Silvia Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Bengkulu
Bosman Sidebang Jurusan Teknologi Pertanian, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Bengkulu

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37676/agritepa.v13i1.10941

Keywords: biochar, pirolisis lambat, simulasi numerik, tandan kosong sawit, validasi model

Abstract

Purpose : This study aims to develop and validate a numerical simulation model for Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) slow pyrolysis to predict biochar and liquid smoke yields within the temperature range of 400–600°C for optimizing palm oil waste conversion. Methodology : The research utilizes a first-order Arrhenius reaction kinetics approach with an activation energy (Ea) of 87.49 kJ/mol. Model validation was performed by comparing simulation results with experimental data from the latest literature (2023–2025) using RMSE, MAPE, and $R^2$ statistical metrics. Results : The simulation model demonstrates very high accuracy with an RMSE of 0.271%, MAPE of 0.74%, and $R^2$ of 0.9726 at a heating rate of 10°C/min. At an operating temperature of 450°C, the model predicts a biochar yield of 30.7% and an estimated liquid smoke yield of 18.6%. Findings : The numerical model is proven capable of precisely representing the thermal degradation process of EFB, enabling product yield prediction without intensive laboratory testing. Novelty : The use of the most recent validation datasets (last three years) and specific application to a gas-fueled slow pyrolysis model tailored for EFB characteristics. Originality : This research offers an integrative approach between kinetic simulation and specific pyrolysis device parameters, providing a practical solution for predicting waste mass conversion efficiency into value-added products. Conclusion : The developed model is valid and reliable for predicting EFB pyrolysis product yields, serving as a technical tool for the design and optimization of small-to-medium-scale pyrolysis reactors. Type of Paper: Research Article.

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