Physico-mechanical properties of briquettes produced from woody biomass

Authors

  • T.A. Orhadahwe Ajayi Crowther University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1779-8381
  • A.A. Adeleke Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
  • P.P. Ikubanni Landmark University Omu-Aran
  • W.A. Adeleke Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
  • R.R. Elewa Landmark University Omu-Aran
  • A.A. Samuel Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja
  • J.K. Odusote University of Ilorin, Ilorin Nigeria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52292/j.laar.2025.3484

Keywords:

Mahogany tree, Impact resistance index, water resistance, drop-to-fracture, binders

Abstract

This study investigates the densification of sawdust from a mahogany tree (Khaya ivorensis) into briquettes for energy applications. The researchers used starch as a binder and four blends of sawdust and starch were prepared with varying proportions of the starch (60 - 75 g) while the mass of sawdust was constant at 60 g. The results showed that the 70 g starch binder briquette had the highest dry density (0.77 g/cm3) and water resistance (33.36%), while the 60 g binder briquette had the highest impact resistance index (250) and drop-to-fracture (15). The 65 g starch binder briquette had the highest compressive strength (519.7 kPa). The dry density and water resistance of briquettes increase with the increase in binder content, while impact resistance decreases. The briquettes can withstand adverse transportation and storage conditions. This research highlights the potential of woody biomass briquettes for energy applications.

Author Biographies

A.A. Adeleke, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja

Senior Lecturer and Head, Mechanical Engineering Department

P.P. Ikubanni, Landmark University Omu-Aran

Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering

J.K. Odusote, University of Ilorin, Ilorin Nigeria

Dean, Faculty of Technology and Professor, Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering

Published

2025-01-09