EVALUATION OF SOME PHYSICAL AND COMBUSTION PROPERTIES OF BIOMASS BRIQUETTES PRODUCED FROM DIFFERENT AGRICULTURAL WASTE MATERIALS AND THEIR BLENDS

Abstract

This study evaluated some physical and combustion properties of briquettes produced from rice offal, sawdust, groundnut shell, and their blends to determine their suitability for clean energy and the benefits of blending. Biomass materials underwent size reduction, sieving (1 mm), moisture adjustment (8%), cassava starch binding (8%), uniform mixing, moulding, hydraulic compaction, and sun dried. Briquette quality was assessed using density, moisture content, ash content, calorific value, compressive strength, and burning rate. Results showed that rice offal briquettes had the highest ash content (22.73%) and lowest calorific value (14.15 MJ/kg), while groundnut shell briquettes recorded the highest energy value (18.89 MJ/kg) with moderate ash (5.23%). Sawdust briquettes exhibited the lowest ash content (2.40%) but the weakest compressive strength (0.06 N/mm²). Blending improved performance significantly: the ternary blend achieved the highest compressive strength (0.88 N/mm²) and stable density (0.58 g/cm³), while the groundnut shell–sawdust blend showed high calorific value (17.82 MJ/kg) and efficient combustion making it best for clean energy performance. ANOVA and Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) indicated significant effects of feedstock on most parameters. The study demonstrates that agricultural residues can be converted into high quality briquettes, with blending enhancing overall fuel performance for sustainable energy applications.