Performance, Emissions, and Suitability for Mass Production of an Updraft Biomass Gasifier Cookstove: An Experimental Study

In Cameroon, renewable energy promotion is a key strategy for improving energy security and fostering employment opportunities. This study evaluates the performance, emission levels, and suitability for promotion for mass production of a novel updraft gasifier biomass cookstove. The assessment, conducted using WBT 4.2.3 protocol, focused on thermal efficiency, carbon monoxide (CO) emissions, particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub>) emissions, and safety, in accordance with ISO/IWA Tier 4 standards. PM<sub>2.5 </sub>emissions were prioritised due to their significant health impacts. A Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) was used to assess the cookstove's potential for mass production, considering criteria such as manufacturability, scalability, fuel savings, usability, durability, maintainability, portability, cost/affordability, safety, weight, space, and cultural acceptability. The Results showed that the stove achieved Tier 2 thermal efficiency (≈25%). Indoor air quality tests revealed Tier 2 CO emissions at both low and high power, while PM<sub>2.5</sub> emissions met Tier 3 at high power and Tier 2 at low power. The safety score was 59/100, corresponding to Tier 1. Compared to the traditional 3-stone fire, the stove demonstrated superior efficiency, indoor air quality, specific fuel consumption, and safety. In the MCDA evaluation, the stove ranked second among five models, confirming its suitability for commercial-scale production, although continuous improvement is required. This study highlights the potential of the first updraft gasifier biomass cookstove tested in Cameroon to contribute to sustainable energy solutions.