Preparation and characterization of biomass briquettes using sugarcane bagasse, corncob and rice husk

Abstract Biomass briquettes can be considered as an effective alternate source of energy for fossil fuels. The present study deals with the conversion of Sugarcane bagasse(S), Corn cob (C) and Rice husk (R) of various proportions into biomass briquettes. The characterization of the prepared biomass briquettes includes analysis of physical, thermal properties along with the burning capacity by means of water heater test. The physical properties of the briquettes have been analyzed by shatter resistance test, tumbling resistance test and water penetration test. Combustion, proximate and ultimate analysis have been carried out to evaluate the characteristics of the prepared biomass briquettes. A modified Harsha stove which has more efficiency than the conventional one has been fabricated in order to perform the combustion process. The physical and thermal characteristics of the prepared biomass briquettes have been compared with conventional wood charcoal briquettes. Proximate analysis of briquetted sample has been carried out to determine the moisture content, volatile matter, ash content and fixed carbon whereas ultimate analysis have been performed to determine the percentage of Carbon, Hydrogen and Nitrogen respectively.