Preparation of composite biomass briquette from a mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk with Cow dung as a binder

Abstract

The aim of the study is to determine a mixture of domestic solid waste and coconut husk for composite biomass briquette production using cow dung as a binder. A 170-litre metal drum with specified dimensions was used as a kiln during the pyrolysis of the various feedstocks and a manually fabricated cylindrical design press was employed for compaction. With the aid of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), the feedstocks were subjected to characterisation. Moreover, an Oxygen Parr Bomb Calorimeter was used to calculate the composite briquette's gross calorific value. Additionally, a LECO 932 CHNS elemental analyzer was utilized to determine the elemental composition of the composite biomass briquette. Subsequently, a Water boiling test was conducted to assess the suitability of the fuel compared to traditional charcoal observing the fuel burning rate, specific fuel consumption, ignition time, and thermal efficiency. Under optimal conditions such as a feedstock ratio of 1:1 by weight 10% binder concentration and low-pressure compaction, the composite biomass briquette production yielded 14 cylindrical lumps from 4.5 kilograms of composite biochar used. The composite biomass briquettes had an optimal high heating value of 19.3 ± 0.1 MJ/kg, ash content of 7.4 ± 0.2 %, and 512.03g/ m3 bulk density. The cow dung used as a binder demonstrated excellent lignin composition and adhesive properties. The composite biomass briquettes show optimal combustion properties, positioning them as efficient and suitable solid fuels for cooking and heating in homes. These properties complied with the specifications outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E791-08) Standard. The outcome of the study complements the body of knowledge on composite biomass briquette technology in Sub-Saharan Africa. Also, this study addresses the growing demand for clean and cheap domestic cooking fuel while solving the widespread environmental challenges of improper municipal solid waste disposal, indoor air pollution, and deforestation in Ghana.