Comparative Quality Assessment of Briquettes Derived from Agricultural Biomass

The increasing demand for sustainable energy and the global urgency to reduce fossil fuel consumption have led to the growing use of biomass waste as a renewable energy source. This study investigates the quality of briquettes derived from three agricultural residues: empty fruit bunches (EFB), coconut shells, and coconut husks. Proximate analysis, including moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, and fixed carbon, along with calorific value, was performed to evaluate combustion performance. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA confirmed significant differences between the three biomass types across all parameters. Coconut shell briquettes showed superior quality, with the highest fixed carbon and calorific value, making it the most promising feedstock for efficient biofuel applications. The study supports the utilization of agricultural waste for renewable energy and the development of rural agroindustry.