Evaluation Of The Mechanical Properties And Trace Elements Of Maize Husk Briquette And Charcoal, As An Alternative Energy Source; A Comparative Analysis:- Emmanuel Vincent C

ABSTRACT

The main subjects ofthis study were the production ofbriquettes made from maize husk briquette. The calorific value ofthe manufactured briquettes and proximal and ultimate analyses were used to evaluate the combustion characteristics. The manufactured fuel briquette's ash, moisture, volatile matter, and fixed carbon content varied from 2.99 to 14.28, 4.24 to 14.99, 59.7 to 71.39, and 9.50 to 21.38. respectively. Its calorific value ranges from 11.98 to 15.55 MJ/kg. The maximum compressed density (2.1 g/cm3), relaxed density (0.82 g/cm3), shattering index (99.53%), and water resistance capacity (11.9 minutes) were found in maize husk briquettes with 0.2 mm particle size. Briquettes made from maize husk briquettes can be used as a source of cooking fuel and in small businesses like bakeries. The porosity in the maize bran briquettes enables the volatiles to leave more readily and be consumed rapidly in the flame. This explains the sharp temperature rise after the first 6- 7 minutes and the fact that cellulose materials often display flaming combustion.