Authors:
Chibuzo V. Ikwuagwu, Ikechukwu E. Okoh, Stephen A. Ajah

Addresses:
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria. Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power and Energy Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria.  Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States of America. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi, Nigeria.

Abstract:

The persistent dependence on traditional biomass cookstoves in developing countries continues to pose significant challenges related to household air pollution, inefficient fuel utilisation, and environmental degradation. This study presents the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a dual-purpose biomass cookstove capable of both cooking and grilling, fueled by wood and charcoal. The stove was designed with an improved combustion chamber, controlled air supply, and a chimney system to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce emissions. A numerical transient thermal analysis was carried out using ANSYS to investigate the temperature distribution and heat flux within the stove body under time-dependent operating conditions. Experimental performance evaluation was conducted through water-boiling and grilling tests, and the results were benchmarked against data from conventional and moderately efficient stoves reported in the literature. The fabricated stove demonstrated progressive temperature rise, stable heat flux distribution, and acceptable cooking and grilling performance, with reduced smoke release due to effective venting of combustion products. Although the boiling and grilling times were slightly longer than those on open fire and average grill stoves, the dual-purpose stove offered improved safety, versatility, and emission control. The findings confirm the technical feasibility of a low-cost, locally fabricated dual-purpose biomass cookstove suitable for domestic use, particularly in rural and peri-urban settings. 

Keywords: Biomass Cookstove; Dual Purpose Stove; Thermal Analysis; Water Boiling Test; Grilling Performance; Household Energy; Fuel Utilisation; Performance Evaluation; Cooking and Grilling.

Received on: 13/07/2024, Revised on: 30/09/2024, Accepted on: 12/02/2025, Published on: 05/12/2025

DOI: 10.69888/FTSASS.2025.000570

FMDB Transactions on Sustainable Applied Sciences, 2025 Vol. 2 No. 2, Pages: 105-116

• Views : 62
• Downloads : 10

Download PDF