Briquette production from industrial and fruit wastes as a clean fuel for versatile applications

This study examines the feasibility of utilizing briquettes composed of banana and avocado fruit wastes combined with bagasse as a sustainable fuel source for developing regions, particularly Ethiopia. Despite progress in renewable energy technologies, fossil fuels remain predominant, exacerbating climate change and socioeconomic challenges. The primary aim of this research is to assess the fuel properties of briquettes made from these biomass sources. Biomass samples were collected from juice production facilities in Addis Ababa, while bagasse was sourced from the Wonji sugar factory. The samples underwent air-drying and carbonization, followed by analyses of proximate content, calorific value, and emissions. To enhance briquette strength and thermal value, carbonized and ground samples were blended with water, formed into briquettes, and sun-dried for five days. Results indicated favorable fuel characteristics, including low moisture content (2.66%), high volatile matter (up to 39.90%), and a fixed carbon content of 54.54%. Notably, the briquettes exhibited high calorific values, with Sample 18 (40% avocado, 0% banana, 60% bagasse) reaching 29.93 MJ/kg. Ignition times varied from 1.39 to 2 min, and burning durations ranged from 29.10 to 43.41 min, indicating reliable energy release for heating and cooking applications. The lower CO concentration in briquettes, ranging from 1.8 to 14.5 ppm, suggests enhanced combustion efficiency. These findings suggest that briquettes derived from fruit wastes possess significant energy potential, offering viable alternatives for cooking, heating, and potential industrial energy supplementation.