What Is Palm Kernel Shell?
Palm Kernel Shell (PKS) is the hard, shell like byproduct that remains after extracting the oil from palm kernels. It is primarily generated by palm oil mills in major producing countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, which account for over 80% of global palm oil production.
Instead of being discarded, PKS is increasingly utilized as a renewable energy source, particularly in the biomass fuel industry. Moreover, its low moisture content, high calorific value, and abundant availability collectively make it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels and even other types of biomass, such as wood pellets or rice husks.
Source: International Energy Agency (IEA) Bioenergy Task 40: Sustainable Biomass Markets
Energy and Technical Properties of PKS
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Calorific Value | 4,000 – 4,500 kcal/kg |
| Moisture Content | 10–15% (air dried) |
| Ash Content | 2–5% |
| Bulk Density | 600–750 kg/m³ |
| Carbon Neutral | Yes (plant-based origin) |
These characteristics ensure high combustion efficiency in industrial boilers, power plants, and thermal facilities.
Environmental Benefits of Palm Kernel Shell
- Carbon Neutrality: Because PKS is a plant based material, it absorbs CO₂ during the growth of the palm tree. Therefore, burning it only releases the same amount of carbon it once captured, making it a carbon neutral fuel under international bioenergy standards.
- Waste Utilization: In addition, PKS helps reduce organic waste accumulation in palm oil mills. Rather than allowing it to rot or burn openly (which contributes to pollution), producers repurpose it into high value biomass fuel.
- No Deforestation Involved: Unlike wood pellets, PKS does not require logging or deforestation. Instead, it serves as a natural byproduct making it a sustainable and responsible energy source.
Source: ScienceDirect, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews
Global Demand and Export Market
For example, Japan, South Korea, and several European countries have embraced PKS as part of their energy mix especially in co-firing systems with coal to reduce emissions. In fact, in 2023 alone, Japan imported over 1.3 million tons of PKS, with approximately 75% sourced from Indonesia.
- Japan’s FIT (Feed-in Tariff) policy allows biomass-based power plants to receive government incentives, boosting PKS demand.
- Korea uses PKS in industrial boilers to meet renewable energy standards.
Source: Japan Biomass Fuel Association (JBFA), Biomass Magazine
Common Applications of Palm Kernel Shell
1. Boiler Fuel in Industry
Many industries including palm oil refineries, cement factories, textile mills, and chemical plants use PKS as an energy efficient boiler fuel.
2. Electric Power Generation
Biomass power plants, especially across Asia, burn PKS as a clean alternative to coal, helping reduce carbon emissions.
3. Pelletizing & Briquetting
Some producers convert PKS into pellets or briquettes to simplify transportation and storage.
4. Activated Carbon Production
Manufacturers utilize PKS to produce activated charcoal, which serves in water filtration and air purification systems.
PKS vs Other Biomass Fuels
| Feature | PKS | Wood Pellets | Rice Husk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Content | High | Medium | Low |
| Availability | Abundant in SE Asia | Moderate | Seasonal |
| Sustainability | Byproduct (No cutting) | Risk of deforestation | Often burned waste |
| Cost | Low | High | Low |
Scientific Research and Studies
Recent research has increasingly explored several aspects of PKS utilization, including:
- Firstly, the combustion efficiency of PKS in fluidized bed boilers
- Secondly, emission reductions achieved when co-fired with coal
- And thirdly, the potential for hydrogen production from PKS-derived biochar
Notably, one study published in the Renewable Energy Journal showed that PKS emits up to 70% less CO₂ than coal per energy unit, when combusted under controlled conditions.
Conclusion: A Smart Choice for the Biomass Future
Palm Kernel Shell stands out as a clean, cost effective, and sustainable biomass fuel. Its physical properties, ease of handling, and role in circular agriculture make it a powerful tool for industries aiming to go green.
Whether you’re a power producer, importer, or manufacturer, switching to PKS contributes directly to lowering emissions, reducing waste, and meeting global energy goals.
Secure your bulk Palm Kernel Shell supply today, shipped directly from Indonesia to meet your biomass fuel needs.
