PHYSICOMECHANICAL, ENERGY, AND ASH CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOMASS BRIQUETTES FOR EFFICIENT ENERGY USE
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The increasing demand for sustainable energy has driven attention toward biomass briquettes as a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. This study investigates the mechanical, energy, and combustion characteristics of briquettes produced from rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, sawdust, and corn cob using maize starch as a binder. Seven samples—comprising single and blended biomass types—were analyzed to determine key properties including calorific value, compressive strength, water resistance, impact resistance, ash fusion behavior, and density.
Among the samples, Sample F (sugarcane bagasse) exhibited the best overall performance with the highest calorific value (16.97 MJ/kg), compressive strength (3.18 MPa), and strong resistance to impact and moisture. In contrast, Sample M (a corn cob–rice husk blend) recorded the lowest heating value (12.17 MJ/kg), suggesting that not all blends yield performance improvements.
Ash Fusion Temperature (AFT) results indicated that all samples possessed flow temperatures between 1210 °C and 1250 °C, suitable for biomass combustion. Sample F had the highest FT (1250 °C), likely due to its high Al₂O₃ and low K₂O content, while rice husk-based Sample H (FT: 1240 °C) benefited from a high silica composition. Oxide ratios and XRF results confirmed that silica (SiO₂), calcium (CaO), and iron (Fe₂O₃) levels played critical roles in ash behavior.
Dry and green density tests aligned with mechanical outcomes, showing that denser briquettes tended to exhibit better structural strength and durability. Blended samples like Sample P (sawdust and rice husk) achieved balanced but moderate results, suggesting that careful selection of biomass combinations is crucial.
The study demonstrates that sugarcane bagasse and rice husk, whether used singly or in complementary blends, are the most promising feedstocks for producing high-quality briquettes. Their superior thermal and mechanical behavior support their viability as sustainable energy sources. These findings contribute to the growing body of research advocating for agricultural waste valorisation and energy diversification through biomass briquetting.
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