Characteristics of bio-briquettes from candlenut shells as a renewable energy: Selection of adhesive type, adhesive concentration, and biochar particle size

Abstract

The production and characterization of bio-briquettes from candlenut shells biochar were conducted, with an in-depth investigation into the selection of adhesive type (starch, molasses, tar), adhesive concentration (10%, 20%, 30%), and biochar particle size (20 mesh, 40 mesh, 80 mesh) using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The results highlighted the optimal bio-briquette quality by using starch, with an adhesive concentration of 30% and a biochar particle size of 80 mesh. The produced bio-briquettes met the quality requirements of the Indonesian National Standard (SNI No. 1-3624-2000), as well as other bio-briquette standards. With a remarkably high calorific value, 8254.25 cal/g, these bio-briquettes demonstrate great potential as an affordable renewable energy.