Palm Kernel Shell Innovations – (PKS) or palm kernel shell, once considered waste from the palm oil industry, are now seen as a valuable resource. Through continuous research and development, many innovations have turned PKS into sustainable and profitable products. Below are seven remarkable palm kernel shell innovations backed by reliable studies.
Breakthrough Palm Kernel Shell Innovations in Research
Before looking at the applications, it is useful to see how studies transformed palm kernel shells into versatile materials. In the past decade, researchers across Asia and Africa created several groundbreaking solutions. These palm kernel shell innovations cut agricultural waste and offer sustainable options for industries worldwide. Let’s explore seven key findings that show their potential.
Turning Palm Kernel Shells into Activated Carbon
- Activated Carbon through KOH Activation
First, researchers successfully converted PKS into high quality activated carbon using KOH activation at 800°C. As a result, the final product showed an excellent porous structure. The carbon content rose to 61.10%. In addition, the iodine number reached 994.83 mg/g. Source: iopscience.iop.org - Sulfuric Acid Activation for Local Production
Moreover, studies from Ghana showed that activating PKS with H₃PO₄ can produce efficient activated carbon locally. The iodine number ranged between 682 – 743 mg/g. The formed porosity was also highly suitable for adsorption applications. source: ajol.info
Palm Kernel Shell Innovations for Environmental Protection
- Biocarbon for CO₂ Adsorption
In addition, MDPI research highlighted biocarbon from PKS with a BET surface area of 1232.3 m²/g. About 76% of its structure consists of micropores. This property makes it highly effective for CO₂ adsorption. Therefore, the material is very relevant for environmental protection. source: mdpi.com - Activated Carbon Cloth for Ammonia Removal
Furthermore, a study at Syiah Kuala University developed activated carbon cloth from PKS. Thanks to alkali activation before carbonization, the material effectively absorbed ammonia and reduced skim latex odor, showing strong potential for industrial air purification. source: jurnal.ugm.ac.id
Advanced Palm Kernel Shell Innovations in Wastewater and Air Treatment
- Heavy Metal Adsorption (Pb²⁺)
Another breakthrough came when porous carbon from PKS carbonized at 800°C successfully removed up to 27.5% of Pb²⁺ ions from liquid solutions. This process followed the Freundlich adsorption model and pseudo-second-order kinetics, proving its efficiency in wastewater treatment. source: jurnal.ugm.ac.id - Magnetic Activated Carbon
In addition, research published in Nanotechnology for Environmental Engineering revealed magnetic activated carbon from PKS. Afterward, through chemical activation and magnetization, this innovative material worked effectively in capturing magnetic contaminants. Consequently, it opened new doors for advanced water purification technologies. sorce: link.springer.com
Palm Kernel Shell Innovations for Renewable Energy
- High Efficiency PKS Briquettes
Finally, studies from Ghana confirmed that PKS briquettes deliver highly efficient combustion. Moreover, with a very low moisture content of just 1.08% and minimal emissions, these briquettes therefore outperform conventional charcoal and offer a sustainable fuel alternative. source: cell.com
Conclusion
In conclusion, this by product of palm processing is therefore no longer seen as simple agricultural waste. Over time, it has evolved into a sustainable asset with multiple practical uses. It can serve as activated carbon, biocarbon for CO₂ capture, magnetic carbon, or even eco-friendly briquettes for households and industries. Moreover, when supported with proper management and wider adoption, it can therefore provide cleaner energy, while also strengthening environmental protection, and ultimately generating lasting economic value for producing countries.
Take the next step – Explore how PKS can boost your sustainable projects today!
