Design and Development of a Multi-Product Coconut Oven

Coconut shell charcoal production presents significant environmental and economic challenges, affecting local ecosystem and farmer livelihoods. The excess coconut shells stockpiled in rural areas of Masalukot II, Candelaria, poses disposal issues due to their distance from urban markets. The researchers introduced a solution through the design of Multi-Product Coconut Oven, which efficiently produces CSC while extracting bio-oil for agriculture use, aiming to enhance effciency and reduce waste. The researchers aim the following objectives: to design, develop and fabricate a machine to convert coconut shells into charcoal and extract bio-oil, catering to the needs of farmers in remote regions. Research methods included data gathering and analysis using fishbone diagrams, why-why analysis, and root cause analysis to identify challenges and potential solutions. The prototype underwent comprehensive testing focusing on functionality, efficiency, and cost, with critical attention given to the pyrolysis process reaching (400-700 °C) crucial for optimal charcoal production and bio-oil extraction. Feedback from surveyed farmers who tested the machine indicated successful outcomes, with the machine meeting efficiency targets. Through waste management of coconuts and the provision of valuable unwanted byproducts for nearby farmers, this research offers an economical approach to agricultural sustainability. To better promote sustainable agriculture practices, additional studies may look into expanding the technology's applicability and increasing the results in the same environment.