Performance Evaluation of Hybrid Briquettes Produced from Carbonized Sawdust and Guinea Corn Straw Using Starch Binder in Rural Enugu State

Description

Performance Evaluation of Hybrid Briquettes Produced from Carbonized Sawdust and Guinea Corn Straw Using Starch Binder in Rural Enugu State

Authours: Anthony A.A and Audu V.

ABSTRACT:

This study evaluates the performance of hybrid fuel briquettes produced from carbonized Saw dust and Guinea corn straw, using starch as a binder. The raw materials were mixed in ratios of 90:0:10, 75:15:10, 60:30:10, 45:45:10, 30:60:10, 15:75:10 and 0:90:10 (Saw dust: Guinea corn straw: Binder). Briquettes were produced via hydraulic pressing. Proximate, ultimate, and performance (boiling time, calorific value) analyses were conducted. Results indicated that increased carbonized Saw dust content enhanced fixed carbon and heating value. The 45:45:10 blend showed the best performance, with a heating value of 24.9 MJ/kg.
These briquettes demonstrated improved combustion and lower emissions compared to uncarbonized counterparts, making them viable for rural energy needs.

KEYWORDS: Biomass carbonization, Mixing ratio, Energy fuel, Combustion Characteristics