Analysis of the characteristics of briquettes made from a combination of corn stalk (Zea mays L.) and coconut shell (Cocos nucifera L.) Waste

Abstract

Energy consumption in Indonesia continues to increase due to the rising population and economic activities. Energy consumption in Indonesia has been increasing by an average of 7-8% per year over the past decade. Therefore, alternative renewable energy sources are needed to reduce the use of non-renewable fossil fuels. Briquettes are one form of alternative fuel that is becoming increasingly popular in Indonesia, especially as a solution to reduce fossil fuel consumption. This study uses a briquette made from a mixture of corn stalks and coconut shell with tapioca flour as a binder. This research aims to determine the characteristics and the durability of the briquettes, as well as the optimal composition in making briquettes from corn stalk and coconut shell waste. In this study, four variants are used: R1 = 100% corn stalk, R2 = 70% corn stalk and 30% coconut shell, R3 = 50% corn stalk and 50% coconut shell, R4 = 30% corn stalk and 70% coconut shell. The tested parameters include moisture content, ash content, calorific value, temperature, and combustion rate. The results of the analysis are measured against SNI criteria, where all variants meet the criteria for moisture content testing, but for ash content and calorific value testing, only two variants meet the criteria, namely R3 and R4. Variant R2 shows the best durability and combustion temperature, while in the combustion rate test, variant R4 shows the best combustion rate. In conclusion, briquettes made from a mixture of corn stalk and coconut shell waste have different characteristics depending on the percentage of the mixture used. The durability of the briquettes follows the amount of the dominant material between corn stalks and coconut shells. Adding 50% coconut shell results in the most suitable composition for making briquettes from a combination of corn stalk and coconut shell waste, which meets the SNI standards for charcoal briquettes.