Construction of Composite Briquettes from Banana and Rice Husk Residues: A Sustainable Alternative Fuel Source

Background: The depletion of fossil fuels, growing energy costs, and environmental concerns have all contributed to a significant increase in demand for alternative energy. In this context, biomass obtained from agricultural waste provides a sustainable and renewable energy source. Banana peels and rice husks are two of the most common byproducts of agricultural and food processing activities. The study aimed to evaluate banana residues mixed with rice husk for briquette production to meet rural Pakistan's energy demands. Banana leaves and rice husk were collected, sun-dried, shredded, and combined in different ratios for briquetting. Fine particle ratios included T1 (Banana 75% and Rice 25%), T2 (Banana 50% and Rice 50%), T3 (Banana 25% and Rice 75%), Coarse particle size T4 (Banana 75% and Rice 25%) and T5 (Banana 50% and Rice 50%) and T6 (Banana 25% and Rice 75%). Results showed maximum density (0.67 g/cm³) in T1, followed by T2 (0.65 g/cm³) and T3 (0.62 g/cm³) for fine particles. Higher banana leaf content led to denser briquettes. Maximum ignition time (74 sec) was recorded in coarse T3, followed by T2 (67 sec) and T1 (64 sec). Briquettes with more rice husk ignited more slowly. Maximum ash content (16.14%) occurred in fine T3, followed by T2 (14.33%) and T1 (12.25%). Briquettes with higher banana leaf content had more ash. Burning rates were highest in coarse T1 (0.23 g/min), followed by T2 (0.19 g/min) and T3 (0.17 g/min), with rice husk contributing to faster burning. Calorific value peaked in coarse T3 (16,725.1 J/g), followed by T2 (16,552.1 J/g) and T1 (16,231.1 J/g). Higher rice husk content increased calorific values. Volatile matter was highest in coarse T1 (74.31%), with rice husk dominating. Fine T3 had the most fixed carbon (16.04%), with banana leaves contributing more carbon. Conclusion: The findings of this research emphasize the necessity to develop low-cost, accessible briquette production technologies, particularly in rural and developing locations with limited energy resources. With additional research and optimization, composite briquettes could be a feasible alternative to fulfill rising energy demands, prevent environmental damage, and increase the economic value of agricultural waste.