Assessment of Fuel Briquettes from Blends of Low- and High-Density Wood Sawdust with Palm Kernel Shell Residues

The escalating global energy demand, coupled with the imperative for sustainable resource management and waste valorization, has intensified research into alternative energy sources. Biomass briquettes, derived from agricultural and forestry residues, represent a promising avenue for clean and renewable energy production. This article presents a comprehensive characterization of fuel briquettes produced from various blends of low-density wood sawdust, high-density wood sawdust, and palm kernel shell (PKS). The study investigates the influence of raw material density and mixing ratios on the physicochemical, mechanical, and combustion properties of the resulting briquettes. Methodologies encompassed detailed proximate and ultimate analyses of the raw materials and briquettes, determination of calorific values, and assessment of physical parameters such as density, moisture content, water absorption, and swelling ratio. Mechanical strength, including compressive strength and durability, was evaluated to ascertain handling and storage resilience. Furthermore, burning characteristics, including ignition time, burning rate, and flame duration, were analyzed to understand their combustion performance. The findings reveal that blending different densities of sawdust with PKS significantly influences briquette quality, offering optimized fuel properties. Briquettes incorporating PKS demonstrated enhanced calorific values and improved burning characteristics, while the inclusion of high-density sawdust contributed to superior mechanical strength. This research provides valuable insights into developing high-quality, sustainable solid biofuels from readily available waste streams, contributing to waste reduction, rural energy access, and a diversified energy portfolio. The optimized briquette formulations present a viable alternative to conventional fossil fuels, supporting a circular economy and mitigating environmental impact.