The Influence of Rice Husks, Coconut Shells, and Sugarcane Bagasse on the Quality of Bio Briquettes

Abstract

Coal is a limited natural resource and is found in certain geological locations. Indonesia has abundant mineral and coal resources, with fairly good quality and quantity. The use of coal as fuel has an impact on the environment because CO2 emissions resulting from burning coal can cause a greenhouse effect. One solution to the problem of using coal is the production of alternative energy in the form of briquettes from biomass. This research aims to study the effect of adding a mixture of bagasse, rice husks and coconut shells on the calorific value. The carbon and hydrogen content in biomass greatly influences the water content of the briquettes produced. The increase in carbon content is generally inversely proportional to water content. Briquettes from coconut shell biomass have a higher carbon content than those from rice husks and sugar cane bagasse. The highest calorific value was obtained from coconut shell biomass briquettes, namely 5280.85 cal/g, because briquettes from coconut shells had the highest carbon content, namely 57.18% compared to the carbon content of rice husks and sugar cane bagasse, namely 37 respectively. 24 and 50.04%. Carbon is one of the main components that influences the energy value of briquettes. Although the hydrogen content also contributes to the heating value, its impact is not as big as the carbon content in biomass. The elemental composition of CHNS can affect the water content and calorific value produced. Briquettes from this biomass are only suitable for use as fuel for household purposes.