PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BIOBRIQUETTE FROM BIOMASS OF MANGO LEAF, SAW DUST AND RICE HUSK AS EFFICIENT ENERGY SOURCES FOR COOKING

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions has driven interest in alternative biomass sources for energy production. This study investigates the production and characterization of bio briquettes made from different biomass of mango leaves, sawdust, and rice huskusing limestone as binder. The objective is to evaluate the potential of these biomass materials as efficient energy sources for cooking. The bio briquettes were produced using a standard briquetting process, involving mixing, compaction, and drying. Various parameters including ultimate and proximate composition, calorific value, bulk density, hardness and durability as well as mechanical and combustion properties were analyzed to assess their performance. The results demonstrated that the bio briquettes exhibited high calorific values between 20753 to 20506 KJ/kg and high percentage of fixed carbon between 4.18 to 5.58 % which generally indicates good fuel performance.The results also indicated that the bio briquettes has low Sulphur content and high volatile matter content between 50.53 to 62.84 % an indication that they are ecofriendly and can easily burn to yield energy. The bio briquettes of mango leaves, sawdust, and rice husk not only leverages agricultural waste but also contributes to reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources. This research underscores the potential of utilizing locally available biomass for sustainable energy solutions and offers insights into improving the efficiency of bio briquette production.