Charcoal And Acetic Acid From Tropical Wood

Description And Advantages

Researchers at the Forest Products Research and Development Institute of the Philippines (FPDI) have developed a process for the production of charcoal and acetic acid from some tropical wood species.

The process involves:

• Soaking air-dried wood pieces of 5 x 5 x 30 cm in sodium carbonate solution or 
  phos-phoric acid
• Air-drying and carbonizing the wood pieces
• Cooling the charcoal pieces, and collecting the liquid by-product which contains 
  acetic acid
• Separation of acetic acid from the liquid

According to the researchers, phosphoric acid is a better catalyst than sodium carbonate. The optimum yield of acetic acid is obtained when 10 percent phosphoric acid is used. The yield is 7.85 percent for giant Leucaena Leucocephala, 7 percent for "Yemane" and 6.84 percent for "Mollucan sau."

The technology has been pilot-tested.

Established in 1954, FPRDI is a government agency attached to the Department of Science and Technology. FPRDI provides services such as technology transfer, technical assistance and training for forest-based industries.

For more information, contact:

The Director
Forest Product Research and
Development Institute
College, Los Banos, Laguna 4031
Tel: (049) 536-2377; 536-3630
Telefax: (049) 536-3630
Website: www.dost.gov.ph

Source: Global Business Oppertunities, May-June 2002