Browsing by Author "Peter Pelumi Ikubanni"

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A comprehensive review of hydrogen production and storage: A focus on the role of nanomaterials
(The University of Edinburgh, 2022-05-20) Emmanuel I. Epelle; Kwaghtaver S. Desongu; Winifred Obande; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Jude A. Okolie; Burcu Gunes
Nanomaterials are beginning to play an essential role in addressing the challenges associated with hydrogen production and storage. The outstanding physicochemical properties of nanomaterials suggest their applications in almost all technological breakthroughs ranging from catalysis, metal-organic framework, complex hydrides, etc. This study outlines the applications of nanomaterials in hydrogen production (considering both thermochemical, biological, and water splitting methods) and storage. Recent advances in renewable hydrogen production methods are elucidated along with a comparison of different nanomaterials used to enhance renewable hydrogen production. Additionally, nanomaterials for solid-state hydrogen storage are reviewed. The characteristics of various nanomaterials for hydrogen storage are compared. Some nanomaterials discussed include carbon nanotubes, activated carbon, metal-doped carbon-based nanomaterials, metal-organic frameworks. Other materials such as complex hydrides and clathrates are outlined. Finally, future research perspectives related to the application of nanomaterials for hydrogen production and storage are discussed.
A comprehensive review on the similarity and disparity of torrefied biomass and coal properties
(Elsevier, 2024-05-09) Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Stephen S. Emmanuel; Moses O. Fajobi; Praise Nwachukwu; Ademidun A. Adesibikan; Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; Emmanuel O. Adeyemi; Oluwaseyi M. Abioye; Jude A. Okolie
The use of coal for energy generation is facing serious scrutiny because of environmental concerns. As a result, there is a growing global interest in biomass, a renewable and readily available energy source. However, the utilization of biomass comes with significant drawbacks, including its heterogeneity, low bulk density, and calorific value. Biomass also has a low energy content, high moisture, poor grindability, and high volatile matter, which affect its handling, bulk transportation, and storage. Torrefaction technology has been employed in previous works to improve the properties of biomass for subsequent handling and transportation and for low-cost energy generation. Since coal is a promising precursor for energy generation, it is imperative to compare the physicochemical properties of coal with that of torrefied biomass. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a comprehensive comparison between various grades of coal and torrefied biomass. The review revealed that torrefied biomass could replace coal, as its properties are similar to those of coal, except for high-grade coals. The proximate and ultimate analyses of coals (lignite and bituminous) were found to be comparable to various torrefied biomass materials. The fuel ratio (0.5–2.0), and higher heating values (16,100–19,000 kJ/kg) of coal and torrefied biomass were within the range useful for coal-fired plants. Additionally, ash analyses, ash fusion temperature, hygroscopic tendency, functional group study, and microstructural comparison were reviewed in this study. The results from various studies have shown close similarities with only small disimilarities in the fuel properties between coal and torrefied biomass. Therefore, torrefied biomass is proposed as a complimentary feedstock to coal in various applications.
A Model-Based Design of an Electric Kettle for Nigerian Households
(IEEE, 2024-08-15) Nwachukwu Praise; Ibikunle Rotimi; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Seun Jesuloluwa; Onyemachukwu Chidindu
Electric kettles, essential in Nigerian households is the focus of this paper. It aims to develop and analyse discrete-time and continuous-time models using engineering software. First, a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model is developed, followed by the comprehensive analysis of the steady-state thermal properties of the model using finite element analysis (FEA). Subsequently, a physical model, with three sub-systems, is developed and subjected to simulation. This study examines both models, scrutinizes the effect of alterations in thermal parameters, and conducts a comparative analysis with an actual kettle. The findings, offer valuable insights into the dynamics of the electric kettle and provide intuitive suggestions for enhancing its efficiency and usage.
A Review of Failure Analyses in Engineering: Causes, Effects and Possible Solutions
(IEEE, 2023-05-22) Temitayo Samson Ogedengbe; Ikumapayi Omolayo Michael; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Adeiza Avidime Samuel
Failure analysis is centred on finding the reasons why machine parts lose functioning in an unintended way. In order to identify the damage's primary cause and ensure that it doesn't happen again, failure analysis investigation is necessary in determining the maximum amount of a specific type of load that may be applied to a structure without producing failure. It is frequently of interest throughout the design phase for engineering constructions. This provides the factor of safety against machine failure. This study is aimed at a review of failure analysis in recent times and as such 51 articles were reviewed, most of which were published no later than 2017. In this study, we critically examined and endorsed the idea of using failure as a methodological concept to foster creativity. Engineering-related operational methods, such as causes of failure, types of failure, possibility thinking, and reflexivity following failure, aided in reinforcing this educational study. We also made assumptions about potential design components for a technologically sophisticated failure assessment.
A Review of Rare Earth Ion-Doped Glasses: Physical, Optical, and Photoluminescence Properties
(Trends in Sciences, 2024-10-22) Serifat Olamide Adeleye; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Petrus Nzerem; Adebayo Isaac Olosho; Esther Nneka Anosike-Francis; Temitayo Samson Ogedengbe; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Rabiatu Adamu Saleh; Jude A. Okolie
Researchers worldwide have shown significant interest in doping glasses with rare-earth ions. This is particularly intriguing because rare-earth ions are extensively used to enhance the optical properties of host glasses, capitalizing on their unique spectroscopic characteristics due to optical transitions within the intra-4f shell. An in-depth review was conducted on various glass fabrication methods, such as sputtering, solgel, chemical vapor deposition, ion exchange, and direct melt quenching. The study emphasized the physical, optical, and photoluminescence properties of glasses made from glass formers co-doped with rare earth ions. Understanding the interrelationship between these properties is crucial for optimizing material performance across various technological applications. The research highlights the broad applicability of rare-earth-doped glasses in fields like white light emission, photonic devices, solid-state lasers, optical fiber communication, and biomedical applications
A Review of the Physical, Optical and Photoluminescence Properties of Rare Earth Ions Doped Glasses
(TRENDS IN SCIENCES, 2024-10-22) Serifat Olamide Adeleye; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Petrus Nzerem; Adebayo Isaac Olosho; Esther Nneka Anosike-Francis; Temitayo Samson Ogedengbe; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Rabiatu Adamu Saleh; Jude A. Okolie
Doping glasses with rare-earth ions have garnered significant attention among researchers worldwide. This interest stems from the widespread utilization of rare-earth ions to enhance the optical characteristics of host glasses and exploit the unique spectroscopic properties arising from their optical transitions in the intra-4f shell. Thus, this study reviewed the exceptional potential of rare-earth ion-doped glasses (REIs) in various applications such as solid-state lasers, photonic devices, communication optical fibers, and white light emission. Various methods for the fabrication of glass such as direct melt quenching, sol-gel, ion exchange, sputtering and co-doping techniques were reviewed extensively. The Specific focus was on the physical, optical and photoluminescence properties of glasses produced from glass formers co-doped with rare earth ions. The investigation centers on the comprehensive current applicability of REI-doped glasses. The review concludes based on the physical, optical and photoluminescence properties of rare earth ion-doped glasses that they are extremely useful in photonics, lasers, biomedical and optical communication applications.
A review on primary synthesis and secondary treatment of aluminium matrix composites
(Taylor and Francis, 2020-10-13) T. A. Orhadahwe; O. O. Ajide; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni
In this paper, the primary synthesis and secondary treatment of Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) has been reviewed. The renewed quest for component materials with high strength-to-weight ratio, unusual and superlative combination of properties for applications in automotive, aerospace, marine and warfare armoury manufacturing industries has increased the versatility potential of aluminium alloy-based composites. Several categories (synthetic and agro-based ceramics) of reinforcement materials for aluminium composite are discussed. The manufacturing/fabrication techniques which could be solid phase (powder metallurgy and rapid prototyping or 3 D printing method) or liquid phase (casting and pressure infiltration) methods are discussed in this review work. Secondary treatment such as heat treatment, forging and other thermomechanical treatments which improves the properties of as-synthesized composites are also discussed. A review synopsis of recent studies provides opportunity for concise but a more robust understanding of potential benefits and detrimental effects associated with the use of various primary synthesis routes and secondary treatment for manufacturing of ceramic reinforced AMCs. Despite the laudable research efforts that have been made towards development and enhancement of the properties of AMCs, this review work revealed that literature is very sparse on synergetic adoption of multi-synthesis route and multi-approach secondary treatment for producing AMCs. Sequel to the aforementioned unexplored research concept, some lacunae are identified and suggested for further elaborations and study.
A review on the use of carboxymethyl cellulose in oil and gas field operations
(Cellulose, 2023-09-17) Hauwa A. Rasheed; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Petrus Nzerem; Olusegun Ajayi; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Asmau M. Yahya
The purpose of this review is to highlight the applications of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in oil and gas industries. CMC is one of the most promising cellulose derivatives and the most widely used in the drilling sector. Owing to its multifunctionality, facile, inexpensive, raw material abundance, availability, compatibility, distinctive surface property and many other disparate aspects, it is now widely used in many fields for a variety of applications, including the oil and gas industry, pharmaceuticals, food, textiles, wastewater treatment, and energy production/storage. Despite CMC’s wide applications in many fields, very few studies report its role in oil and gas operations such as drilling and completion, hydraulic fracturing, corrosion inhibition and cementing applications. As a result, this review points some of CMC’s relevance in the oil and gas industry now and in future.
Advancement in Magnesium Metal Matrix Composites: A Mini-Review of Production Techniques, Properties, and Applications
(IEEE, 2024-08-15) Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Samuel O. Oladimeji; Olayinka O. Agboola; Bamidele T. Ogunsemi; Olatunji P. Abolusoro; Peter Onu; Remilekun R. Elewa
The advancement of research in new engineering materials has led to the development of magnesium metal matrix composites (Mg MMCs). This study critically examined the production techniques, properties, and applications of Mg MCs. Powder metallurgy and casting routes were the two classifications of the techniques for producing Mg MMCs. The mechanical, tribological, corrosion, and bio-compatibility properties of the composites and the application of the Mg MMCs were reviewed. Orowan strengthening mechanism, Hall Petch strengthening mechanism, and Taylor strengthening mechanism were the mechanisms responsible for the improvement of the strength of the composite. The study further highlighted the areas for future studies.
Advent of Artificial Intelligence in Automotive Engineering
(IEEE, 2024-02-29) Adeiza Avidime Samuel; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Esther Nneka Anosike-Francis; Temitayo Samson Ogedengbe; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Favour Oluwasayo Adeyemi; Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; Matthew Onuoha; Usman Shuaib
Artificial intelligence (AI) has long been a topic of interest and with its constant development and growing popularity and functions, it is no surprise that it has made its way into the automotive industry. For ages, people have done research regarding AI in the automotive industry, and with the increasing popularity of this subject, the research only goes deeper. This paper gives an analysis of previous research under different areas which involve AI in automotives, somewhat singling out autonomous vehicles. We also go into the basis of artificial intelligence, as well as highlight a few challenges which face the integration of AI into the automotive industry.
Analysis of an Experimental Digital Read-outs Slider Crank Mechanism
(IEEE, 2024-08-15) Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Qudus A. Siyanbola; Oluwasogo L. Ogundipe; Olayinka O. Agboola
Slider-crank mechanism (SCM) was developed with digital read-outs in this study to make the reading of experimental results more accurate. They are connected by joints and force elements for the conversion of reciprocating motion into rotary motion or vice-versa. A digital protractor (accuracy = ±𝟎. 𝟐) and a digital vernier caliper (accuracy = +0.02 mm) were incorporated as the crank and the slider respectively, while a stainless-steel plate was made the connecting link. The deviation of the slider (displacement) values from the corresponding theoretical values at various angles was determined. The simple harmonic ratio of the analogue mechanism is higher than that of the digital mechanism but the deviations of the slider (displacement) values of the digital mechanism from the theoretical values are quite negligible. The deviations of the analogue system from its corresponding theoretical values are far higher. Based on the result obtained, the digital system is more precise and accurate for experimental studies than the analogue system.
Application of Conversion Coatings on Aluminum Matrix Composites for Corrosion Protection
(Portugaliae Electrochimica Acta, 2025-02-02) Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Makanjuola Oki; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; T. A. Orhadahwe; A. A. Samuel; J. A. Okolie; P. O. Omoniyi; T. C. Jen
Accelerated corrosion is closely associated with the inclusion of secondary reinforcement particulates in metal matrices, where they are usually present as cathodic sites. This hinders full utilization of composite products for engineering applications. In this study, chemical CC were used to improve MMC corrosion in atmospheric and simulated seawater environments. Comparison between CCC and PPCC performance was done to find a substitute for the former, which contains carcinogenic Cr VI ions. Japanese industrial testing method was used to determine the composite LC/CC samples adhesion characteristics, after a series of exposure regimens. CCC specimens displayed marginal corrosion resistance superiority over their PPCC counterparts. There was little to no pits on the CC substrate compared to the non-coated samples. The CC applied on the substrates prevented the coating delamination. The lacquer remained unpeeled on the substrate, during Japanese industrial testing. This indicates reduced corrosion activities on the substrates.
Assessing absorption-based CO2 capture: Research progress and techno-economic assessment overview
(Elsevier, 2023-06-16) Usman Khan; Chukwuma C. Ogbaga; Okon-Akan Omolabake Abiodun; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Patrick U. Okoye; Jude A. Okolie
Rapid industrial developments and rising population are mounting concerns, leading to increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and resultant climate change. Therefore, to curb such drastic trends, it is necessary to adopt and develop a sustainable environment. Among the most effective ways to lower GHG emissions is carbon capture. Absorption is one of the most mature methods of reducing CO2 due to its high processing capacity, excellent adaptability, and reliability. This study aims to evaluate the most recent advancements in various CO2 capture techniques, with an emphasis on absorption technology. The techno-economic analyses of absorption-based CO2 capture processes were meticulously discussed. These include studies on solvent screening as well as techno-economic analysis methods. Economic estimators such as the payback period, rate of return and net present value are discussed. The research progress in absorption-based capture compared to other separation methods, is elucidated. Advances in the applications of various absorption solvents including aqueous, phase change solvents and deep eutectic solvents are presented. Finally, key recommendations are provided to tackle the challenges for efficient utilization of the absorption technique.
ASSESSMENT OF TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF STIR CAST Al6063 ALLOY REINFORCED WITH OKABA COAL ASH
(SCICELL, 2023-03-23) Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Qudus Badrudeen; Adeiza Avidime Samuel; Olalekan Ogunniyi; Temitayo Samson Ogedengbe
Composite are multi-phase materials made up of matrix and reinforcement. This paper assesses the tribological property of Al6063 alloy (AMCs) reinforced with Okaba coal ash (OCA) using the stir casting method. By using a constant speed of 1000 rpm and two different loads (250 g and 750 g) on Taber wear apparatus, the tribological properties of the produced composite are contrasted with those of an unreinforced Al6063 alloy. The results show a reduction in wear index and the highest abrasion resistance at 4 wt.% coal ash at 500 g and 1000 rpm, as well as at 0, 2, and 6 wt.% with 8.688, 5.878, and 5.813 at 500g and 8.688, 5.878, 4.125, and 5.813 at 750g, respectively. Therefore, for all composite products compared to metal, there is an increase in abrasion resistance with a decrease in wear index, but this decreases when the load is increased to 750g, showing that the higher the load, the higher the wear index, which results in a reduction in abrasion resistance. Load is taken into greater consideration when using the AMCs manufactured in engineering applications. Additionally, SEM images revealed uniform distribution of the OCA reinforcement in the matrix alloy; thereby, improving its wear resistance.
Characterization of some commercially available Nigerian coals as carbonaceous material for direct reduced iron production
(Elsevier, 2020-02-16) Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; O.O. Agboola; Olanrewaju Seun Adesina; C.T. Nnodim; Ayokunle O. Balogun; C.J. Okonkwo; A.O. Olawale
Commercially available coals were characterized in this study in order to ascertain their suitability as carbonaceous materials for direct reduced iron (DRI) production. The proximate, elemental and heating value analyses were carried out based on different ASTM standards. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and scanning electron machine equipped with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) spectrometer were further used to obtain the structural components and elemental contents. The samples possess moisture content (2.16–2.41%), ash (78.88–86.28%), and fixed carbon (1.22–4.38%). The samples contain carbon in the range of 1.18–5.24%. The heating values of the sample were in the range of 0.45–1.94 MJ/kg. The predominant functional group in the samples were Si-C and Si-O-Si at 722–817 cm−1 and 1200–1050 cm−1, respectively. The micrographs of the samples also displayed agglomeration of silica and carbide with silicon and aluminum dominating the EDX spectra. It was concluded that the samples characterized in this study were not coals but they belong to the clay/sedimentary rock family. Thus, they are not suitable as carbonaceous material for DRI making.
CHARACTERIZATION OF WHEAT HUSK ASH AND CALCINED EGGSHELL AS POTENTIAL GLASS FORMER
(International Conference on Multidisciplinary Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2023-02-02) Serifat Olamide Adeleye; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Petrus Nzerem; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Ayuba Salihu; Adebayo Isaac Olosho
Numerous agricultural byproducts, such as rice husk and straw, bagasse from sugar cane, palm kernel shell, wheat husk and straw, corn cobs, etc, are highly desired for the production of renewable energy and are seen as potential raw materials for high-value products. Because they can be used to extract quality silica and Calcium oxide for borosilicate glass production, this research has demonstrated that these wastes have a significant end value. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) were used to characterize the calcined waste eggshell and wheat husk ash for crystal type, compound identification, and chemical composition. The findings demonstrated that the amount of silica and calcium oxide obtained from agricultural waste could be a suitable alternative source for making glass, with calcined eggshells having a calcium oxide content of 91.7% and wheat husk ash having a silica content of 71.3%. The potential for utilizing the CaO and amorphous silica in the formation of glass is thus intriguing.
Characterization of Wheat Husk ASH and Calcined Eggshell as Potential Glass Former
(IEEE, 2023-11-01) Serifat Olamide Adeleye; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Petrus Nzerem; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Ayuba Salihu; Adebayo Isaac Olosho
Numerous agricultural byproducts, such as rice husk and straw, bagasse from sugar cane, palm kernel shell, wheat husk and straw, corn cobs, etc, are highly desired for the production of renewable energy and are seen as potential raw materials for high-value products. Because they can be used to extract quality silica and Calcium oxide for borosilicate glass production, this research has demonstrated that these wastes have a significant end value. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) were used to characterize the calcined waste eggshell and wheat husk ash for crystal type, compound identification, and chemical composition. The findings demonstrated that the amount of silica and calcium oxide obtained from agricultural waste could be a suitable alternative source for making glass, with calcined eggshells having a calcium oxide content of 91.7% and wheat husk ash having a silica content of 71.3%. The potential for utilizing the CaO and amorphous silica in the formation of glass is thus intriguing.
Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Reinforcing Steel Bars from Local Steel Plants
(Springer, 2019-06-06) Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; Wasiu Shittu; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Olumide Adeyemo
Steel bars are important engineering materials for structural application. In Nigeria, due to incessant building collapse occurrences, it is important to further investigate some of the mechanical and chemical properties of reinforcing steel bars produced from scrap metals in order to ascertain their compliance with the required standard. Three diameters (10, 12 and 16 mm) of the reinforcing steel bars were chosen from each of the eight steel plants (A–H). Chemical composition analyses and mechanical tests (yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and percentage elongation) were performed using optical emission spectrometer and Instron Satec Series 600DX universal testing machine, respectively. Hardness values of the samples were obtained by conversion of tensile strength based on existing correlation. The results showed that carbon contents, hardness values, yield and ultimate tensile strengths of some of the steel bars were found to be higher than the BS4449, NIS and ASTM A706 standards. The steel bar samples were also found to possess good ductility with samples from steel plants C and D. By observation, all the 12 mm steel bars from steel plants A to H met the required ASTM and BS4449 standards except samples from plant G. This study revealed that most of the investigated reinforcing steel bars have reasonable yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, ductility and hardness properties when compared with the relevant local and international standards. Therefore, they are suitable for structural applications where strength and ductility will be of paramount interest
Combustion characteristics of fuel briquettes made from charcoal particles and sawdust agglomerates
(Elsevier, 2019-10-14) H. A. Ajimotokan; A.O. Ehindero; Kabiru Sulaiman AJAO; Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Y. L. Shuaib-Babata
The combustion characteristics of fuel briquettes made from Idigbo (Terminalia ivorensis) charcoal particles, pinewood (Pinus caribaea) sawdust and their agglomerates using gelatinized cassava peels were investigated. The charcoal particles and pine sawdust were blended in the mixing ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50, respectively and vice-versa. More so, briquettes were produced from pure charcoal particles and pine sawdust separately for the purpose of comparison with the blended briquettes. The gelatinized binder was 5% of the total briquettes weight. The briquettes were produced using a pressure of 5 MPa with a dwelling time of 5 min in a hydraulic briquetting machine. Proximate, elemental compositions and heating value analyses were carried out on the raw charcoal, sawdust, cassava peel, and their briquettes. The results showed that variations in the mixing ratios of the bio-residues had significant effects on all the properties investigated. An increase in the charcoal particles led to an increase in the fixed carbon content and heating value of the briquettes. Conversely, higher pine sawdust content in the briquette resulted in higher volatile matter content and lower heating value. The briquette made from pure charcoal particles had the highest heating value (24.9 MJ/kg) and ash content (6.0%). Its carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen contents were in the range of 44.6–50.1%, 5.1–5.6% and 34.4–41.5%, respectively. The proximate analysis, elemental composition analysis, and heating values of the produced fuel briquettes depicted that they have better combustion properties when compared to the raw charcoal, pine dust, and cassava peel. Thus, the produced briquettes would serve as good fuel for domestic and industrial applications.
Comparative Analyses of Lean Grade Coal and Carbonized Antiaris toxicaria for Energy Generation
(Petroleum and Coal, 2022-02-02) Adekunle Akanni Adeleke; Peter Pelumi Ikubanni; Ayokunle O. Balogun; Jude A. Okolie; Chiebuka T. Christopher; Ayobami O. Olawale; Joseph C. Okonkwo
The current study focused on characterizing lean grade coal and carbonized biomass (at 400oC) for energy generation. Samples were pulverized using a ball mill and then mixed with a mechanical mixer at two mixing ratios. Proximate, ultimate and calorific value analyses were carried out on the samples using different ASTM standards and some available linear regression models. Lean grade coal has the highest ash content (79.58%) while raw biomass has the least (2.29%). Carbonized biomass samples have the highest heating value (9.49 MJ/kg). The O/C and H/C atomic ratios shows that carbonized biomass is the best fuel compared to coal and blended samples. The FTIR spectra of coal and blended samples shows peaks representing Si-O-Si while C-H bonds were the predominant ones in raw and carbonized samples. Lean grade coal and blended samples contain silicon as displayed by the EDX spectra. The coal and blended samples have grey-like silica and carbide microstructure. The coal and blended samples are not good for energy generation but may serve well as raw material for silicon recovery. Carbonized biomass has good fuel properties that can be useful in existing coal-fired plants.