<b>A REVIEW OF COMBUSTION EFFICIENCY ENHANCERS IN COAL-FIRED BOILERS AND A CASE STUDY ON THE NATURAL ADDITIVE FAM22</b>

In this study, two-stage combustion tests were carried out in a hot water boiler located within the greenhouse facility of an enterprise operating in Aydın, Turkey. The tests were performed under two conditions: using only coal, and using coal combined with a natural additive referred to as “FAM22” A total of 6000 kg of coal, sized 0–18 mm, was used in the experiments. Throughout the combustion process, critical performance indicators such as the amount of fuel input, bottom and fly ash generation, and the volume of hot water produced were meticulously measured.<br>The findings reveal that the addition of FAM22 significantly enhanced combustion efficiency. Most notably, the thermal energy output of the system increased by 18.97%, indicating a substantial improvement in heat transfer and utilization. Furthermore, the total ash generation decreased bottom ash by 9.4% and fly ash by 17.6%, while hot water production rose by approximately 8.2%. These results demonstrate that FAM22 not only facilitates more complete and efficient combustion but also contributes to reduced emissions and operational cleanliness. This study offers compelling evidence for the use of natural additives in solid fuel systems, particularly in greenhouse heating applications where both energy efficiency and environmental considerations are critical.