Harnessing the Power of Rice Husks to Combat Toxic Gases

Kenya, with its thriving sugar and sewerage industries, holds immense potential for the production and marketing of activated carbon from rice husks. Activated carbon is widely used for the absorption of toxic gases, making it a valuable product with a strong market demand. This blog delves into the production process, general costs, raw materials and equipment, government incentives, and the revenue potential of making activated carbon from rice husks in Kenya.

Production Process: From Rice Husks to Activated Carbon

The process of making activated carbon from rice husks involves several steps to ensure optimum quality. It begins by crushing the rice husks in a hammer mill to the required size, followed by pulverizing them in a ball mill. The husk powder is then digested with zinc chloride and activated at elevated temperatures. The resulting activated pellets are quenched, leached with diluted hydrochloric acid in a counter-current process, and finally dried in a tray drier. This meticulous process ensures the production of high-quality activated carbon.

General Costs: Assessing Overheads for Profitability

To estimate the general costs, we assume production for 312 days per year, with a daily capacity of 500 grams of activated carbon. Depreciation is considered over a 4-year period, with assets written off at 25% per year. Direct costs include materials, supplies, and other expenses directly associated with the production process. By efficiently managing these costs, entrepreneurs can achieve a net profit margin of 50% with a payback period of 1 year and 2 months.

Raw Materials and Equipment: Local Procurement and Imports

Raw materials such as rice husks can be readily procured locally from areas like Bugiri, Gulu, Mbale, Kasese, and highland rice farmers. Equipment needed for the production process can be imported from countries like China and Japan, known for their expertise in manufacturing such machinery. By leveraging local resources and importing quality equipment, entrepreneurs can ensure the efficiency and sustainability of the production process.

Government Incentives: Support for a Thriving Industry

The Kenyan government incentives are designed to support entrepreneurs in the sector, ensuring their success and contributing to the growth of the industry.

By tapping into the potential of making activated carbon from rice husks, entrepreneurs in Kenya can contribute to combating toxic gases while building a profitable business. With careful planning, cost management, and government support, this venture can offer a sustainable solution and open doors to a thriving industry.