Characterization of Torrefied Briquettes from Agricultural Residues of the DOST-Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub

This research assessed the torrefied biomass briquettes of pineapple leaves fiber, banana pseudostem fiber, and water hyacinth as a sustainable alternative solid fuel. Biomass residues from the DOST-Natural Textile Fiber Innovation Hub were torrefied at 240°C, 260°C, 280°C, and 300°C for 30 minutes using an experimental quantitative research design and densified with cassava starch binder. The briquettes were characterized for physical integrity, water boiling performance, bulk density, moisture content, calorific value and economic feasibility. Results indicated that higher torrefaction temperature decreased moisture content and improved combustion characteristics and energy value where the highest calorific value (21,676 kJ/kg) was obtained at 280°C and fastest boiling time (11 min 29s) was obtained at 300°C. The 280°C briquette had the best overall compromise between structural integrity, energy performance and fuel quality of all the treatments. The economic analysis revealed a production cost of ₱72.38/kg, selling price of ₱109/kg, monthly return on investment of 21.82%, payback period of 5 months, and benefit–cost ratio of 1.51. Briquettes of torrefied biomass were found to be technically feasible and economically viable with 280°C as the most suitable torrefaction temperature. (Torrefaction, Biomass Briquettes, Agricultural Residues)