Development and Performance Analysis of an Improved Biomass Stove for Krajood Dyeing: A Sustainable Appropriate Technology Approach

Abstract

This research developed an improved biomass stove for dyeing Krajood (Lepironia articulata) as a sustainable, appropriate technology for small-scale industry applications. The new design features an integrated water reserve tank, improved combustion chamber, heat shield, and robust support structure while maintaining operational simplicity. Performance evaluation revealed the improved stove reduced PM2.5 emissions at the operator position by 72.25% (from 191±16 to 53±7 μg/m³, p=0.0002), decreased water boiling time by 32.73% (from 55±6 to 37±3 minutes, p=0.0097), shortened dyeing time by 52.43% (from 103±7 to 49±3 minutes, p=0.0006), and lowered ambient temperature at the operator position by 46.45% (from 62.0±4.8°C to 33.2±1.7°C, p=0.0003). These improvements collectively enabled a five-fold increase in daily production capacity from 20 bundles (44 kg) to 100 bundles (220 kg) in an 8-hour workday. Colorimetric analysis confirmed no significant differences in Lab* values between traditionally and newly dyed Krajood at all measurement positions (p>0.05), ensuring quality preservation despite the process modifications. Economic assessment indicates the 71.4% higher initial investment (12,000 vs. 7,000 THB) is rapidly offset by productivity gains. The design exemplifies appropriate technology principles through its simplicity, local material utilization, and alignment with existing production knowledge. This improved stove addresses critical health and efficiency constraints in traditional Krajood processing while preserving product quality, demonstrating how targeted technological interventions can enhance traditional craft productivity and worker wellbeing in rural communities.