Development and Optimization of Briquette Production from Used Paper, Carbonized

Oryza sativa “Rice” Husk, and Pulverize Cocos nucifera “Coconut” Coir for Sustainable

Community Energy Solutions

 ABSTRACT

Charcoal, a longstanding fossil fuel, plays a crucial role as an energy source for communities,

essential for cooking, heating, and other daily tasks. However, its high price poses challenges for

consumers. The goal is to provide a sustainable energy alternative that is both affordable and

environmentally friendly. The briquette process starts with the 500 g pulverized coconut coir and

500 g rice husk. At the same time, used 500 g of paper is prepared by cutting it into strips and

soaking it in water for 3 days, a crucial step that helps break down the fibers, making it easier to

blend materials during briquette production. The process of making briquettes is completed by

adding mixture from 40 g laundry starch and 250 mL water. This resulted in 11 briquettes weighting

50 g, each measuring 5 centimeters in height and 4 centimeters in diameter. However, for more

efficient burning, each briquette was cut in half, effectively doubling the number of usable

briquettes and now weighting 25 g each. The resulting briquettes were tested by burning them,

using 150 grams of briquettes that lasted for 2 hours and comparing them to the same weight of

charcoal that lasted for 1 hour. The briquettes exhibited a total less ash content of 16.6% and a

burning rate of 0.075/hour compared to charcoal. These results demonstrate the potential of these

bio-briquettes as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels for domestic or household energy need

that could last for a long time since the more that it’s stored the moisture lessens.
CHAPTER 1- INTRODUCTION

A. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Approximately 58% of the residents in Brgy. Bonawon, Siaton, Negros Oriental rely on the food

production sector, primarily using charcoal. However, the rising prices of charcoal have made it

harder for low-income families to access it. This financial strain is worsened by the environmental

issues linked to the extraction and use of fossil fuels, such as deforestation, air pollution, and

greenhouse gas emissions.

In response to these challenges, this study focuses on the " Development and Optimization of

Briquette Production from Used Paper, Carbonized Oryza sativa “Rice” Husk, and Pulverize

Cocos nucifera “Coconut” Coir for Sustainable Community Energy Solutions" as a viable

solution to provide affordable and environmentally friendly energy. As Maria Macahig National

High School implements the 7s waste reduction strategy, this project utilizes readily available

waste materials—such as used paper from the school, carbonized rice husk, and pulverized coconut

coir from Horticulture students—to support their Income Generating Project (IGP).

The briquetting process begins with 500 g of pulverized coconut coir and 500 g of rice husk

biomass, which are converted into charcoal powder through carbonization at a consistent high

temperature. Simultaneously, 500 grams of paper is prepared by cutting it into strips and soaking

it in water for three days. The briquettes were crafted using a mixture of 500 grams each of paper,

rice husk, and coconut coir, bound together with 6 mL of a liquid binder. This process yielded 11

briquettes, each measuring 5 cm in height and 4 cm in diameter. To enhance their burning

efficiency, each briquette was cut in half, effectively doubling the usable amount.
The briquettes were then tested by burning 150 grams that lasted for 2 hours and comparing their

performance to the same weight of charcoal. The results showed that the briquettes had an ash

content of 16.6% and a burning rate of 0.075/hour while the charcoal has 33.33 % ash content and

a burning rate of 0.30/hour.

This data suggests that these bio-briquettes have the potential to serve as a sustainable alternative

to fossil fuels for domestic and household energy needs. This research seeks to pave the way for

sustainable community energy solutions, demonstrating the potential of innovative waste-to-

energy technologies in alleviating energy poverty while protecting the environment.

B. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aims to explore the potential of rice husk, coconut coir, and used paper as alternative

sources of charcoal.

Specifically, it will seek to answer the following question:

a) How can the increasing cost of charcoal be mitigated to assist low-income

households?

b) What sustainable energy alternatives can help address the environmental challenges

associated with fossil fuel usage?

c) How can we efficiently convert waste materials, such as used paper and rice husks,

into energy?

d) How does this alternative charcoal compare to conventional options available on

the market?

e) What methods can be employed to recycle waste into alternative fuel?

C. HYPHOTHESIS

Alternative Hypothesis: Briquettes derived from rice husk, coconut coir, and used paper are an

effective alternative energy solution.

Null Hypothesis: Briquettes derived from rice husk, coconut coir, and used paper are not an

effective alternative energy solution.

D. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

1. Waste Utilization: By demonstrating that coconut coir dust and rice husk can be

effectively converted into briquettes, this study highlights a practical solution for waste

management in the coir industry. This not only reduces environmental pollution but also

promotes the recycling of agricultural byproducts.

2. Alternative Energy Source: The briquettes produced from these materials offer a viable

alternative energy source for cooking and heating. This is particularly important in regions

where traditional fuel sources are scarce or expensive, providing communities with a

sustainable and affordable option.

3. Economic Opportunities: The findings suggest the potential for creating new industries

around briquette production. This could lead to job creation and economic development in

both rural and urban areas, enhancing livelihoods and supporting local economies.
 4. Environmental Sustainability: The study contributes to the broader goal of

environmental sustainability by promoting the use of biomass as a renewable energy

source. The carbon-neutral nature of burning these briquettes supports efforts to reduce

greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

5. Impact on Energy Security: By diversifying energy sources with locally produced

briquettes, communities may increase their energy security, reducing dependence on

imported fossil fuels.

E. SCOPE AND DELIMITATION

The study focuses on the production of briquettes using rice husk, coconut coir, and used paper as

alternative sources of energy for low-income households that currently rely on charcoal for

cooking and heating. It aims to analyze the conversion processes of these materials into briquettes,

assess their energy output, and evaluate the environmental benefits, including reductions in carbon

emissions and waste management improvements.

F. DEFINITION OF TERMS

• Biomass: Organic material derived from living or recently living organisms, primarily

plants and plant-based materials. It can be used as a renewable energy source for producing

heat, electricity, or biofuels through processes like combustion, fermentation, or anaerobic

digestion.

• Briquette: A compressed block of biomass or other materials, such as charcoal, coal, or

sawdust, used as a fuel source. Briquettes are typically made by compacting the material

under high pressure, which makes them easier to handle, store, and burn efficiently for

heating or cooking purposes.

• Ash Content: The residue left after the combustion of a material, indicating the inorganic

mineral content and typically expressed as a percentage of the total weight.

• Rice Husk: The protective outer shell of rice grains often considered a waste product,

which can be used in various applications, including as a biofuel or soil amendment.

• Coconut Coir: The fibrous material obtained from the husk of coconuts, used in gardening

and horticulture for its water retention and aeration properties.

• Paper: A thin material made from cellulose fibers, typically used for writing, printing, and

packaging.

• Scissors: A hand-operated tool used for cutting materials, typically consisting of two blades

that pivot on a central point.

• Basin: A wide, shallow container used for holding liquids or mixing materials.

• Water: A clear, colorless liquid essential for life, composed of hydrogen and oxygen,

commonly used as a solvent and in various chemical processes.

• Beaker: A cylindrical glass or plastic container used in laboratories for mixing, heating, or

holding liquids.

• Pan: A flat-bottomed container used for cooking or preparing food, often with low sides

and a handle.

• Ladle: A large, deep spoon used for serving soups or stews, typically with a long handle.

• Pot: A container, usually with a lid, used for cooking or boiling food, often made of metal

or ceramic.
 • Weight Scale: An instrument used to measure the weight of an object, usually calibrated

in grams or kilograms.

• Gloves: Protective hand coverings made of various materials, used to safeguard hands

during various tasks, especially in laboratory or industrial settings.

• PVC (Molder): A mold made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), used for shaping materials

when creating products.

• Saw: A hand or power tool with a serrated blade, used for cutting wood or other materials.

CHAPTER II- REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

One promising alternative for renewable energy development is utilizing rice husk biomass, a

byproduct of rice production. This waste material typically holds low economic value, serving as

a leftover after the main product is utilized. Transforming rice husk into bio-briquettes can enhance

its economic viability. Rice husk is consistently available due to the sustainable cultivation of rice

plants. As a biomass source, the combustion of rice husk results in carbon neutrality, as the carbon

emitted during burning is offset by the carbon absorbed in the subsequent planting cycle. This

contributes to environmental and economic sustainability, as well as fostering long-term socio-

political stability.
Rice husk consists of carbon polymer compounds known as lignocellulose, which includes

cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. To convert rice husk into fuel, a carbonization process is

employed, which removes moisture and breaks down the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin,

ultimately leaving behind charcoal as a raw material for bio-briquettes.

(Fabrication and characterization of rice husk charcoal bio briquettes; S. Suryaningsih; O.

Nurhilal; Y. Yuliah; E. Salsabila AIP Conf. Proc. 1927, 030044 (2018)

https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5021237

Previous research has indicated that coir dust is abundant in lignin (31.2%) and cellulose (40.6%),

with a high calorific value of approximately 4300 kcal/kg (Raveendran et al. 1995). This suggests

that coir dust, often considered waste, can be utilized as an alternative energy source for cooking

and heating, addressing waste disposal issues in the coir industry while also fostering new

industries in both rural and urban settings. (DOI: 10.14710/ijred.3.2.119-123)

CHAPTER III- RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

RESEARCH DESIGN

The research design is experimental, as it involves a direct comparison between the newly

developed bio-briquettes and commercially available charcoal. This comparison allows the

researcher to assess the performance of the bio-briquettes in terms of their burning capacity, ash

content, and overall effectiveness as a fuel source. The experiment provides a controlled

environment to evaluate the bio-briquettes' potential as a sustainable alternative to traditional

charcoal.
RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT

The research was conducted both in laboratory and field settings. The laboratory provides a

controlled space for preparing the briquettes, conducting burn tests, and analyzing data. The field

setting allows for material collection, community engagement, and understanding the practical

needs and preferences for energy solutions within the target community. This combination ensures

a comprehensive approach, combining scientific rigor with real-world application.

A. MATERIALS

• Rice Husk

• Coconut Coir

• Paper

• Cornstarch

• Scissors

• Basin

• Water

• Beaker

• Pan

• Ladle

• Pot

• Weight Scale

• Gloves

• PVC (Molder)
• Saw

A. PROCESSING OF PAPER.

1. Cutting the papers intro strips.

2. Soak it in a 4 L water.
B. The carbonized rice husk and coconut coir was collected from the school horticulture
program, in helping their income generating project of the school.

C. BRIQUETTE PRODUCTION PROCEDURE

1. Squeeze out the excess water from the soaked paper strips.

2. Finely shred the paper to ensure it blends easily with other materials.
3. Set aside the final shredded paper.

4. Measure the laundry starch to be used for the mixture.

5. Add the laundry starch in the measured water in the basin.

6. With all the ingredients ready, mix them together.

7. Ensure a complete and even mix before then secure it in the molder.

8. To reduce moisture, place the finished product in a sun temperature to dry.

D. TESTING OF THE BRIQUETTE
1. MEASURING THE BRIQUETTE VS. CHARCOAL

2. TESTING OF BURNING IT
3. WEIGHT THE ASH CONTENT AFTER IT WAS BURNED
CHAPTER V- DATA ANALYSYS AND CONCLUSION

A. BURNING MEASUREMENT

BRIQUETTE

TIMER TRIAL 1 TRIAL 2 TRIAL 3

150 g of briquette 150 g of briquette was 150 g of
was used used briquette was
used

40 minutes 30.33 % 30.23 % 30.45 %

80 minutes 45% 45.67 % 45.34 %

120 minutes 96% 98% 96.5 %

CHARCOAL (ULING)

TIMER TRIAL 1 TRIAL 2 TRIAL 3

150 g of charcoal 150 g of charcoal was 150 g of
was used used charcoal was
used

20 minutes 60.18 % 60.33 % 60.50 %

40 minutes 80.24 % 80.17 % 80.44 %

60 minutes 98 % 95 % 96.5 %
CHAPTER V
A. CONCLUSION

Extensive testing has revealed that briquettes made from rice husk, used paper, and pulverized

coconut coir offer a promising alternative to traditional charcoal. These bio-briquettes

demonstrate several advantages, including a lower ash content (16.6 %) compared to charcoal

(33.33 %), resulting in less residue after burning. Additionally, they produce a hotter fire than

charcoal with burning rate of 0.075/hour compared to charcoal with 0.30/hour, making them

more efficient for cooking and heating. Furthermore, their organic composition makes them

environmentally friendly, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and with that, the alternative

hypothesis is accepted.

B. RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the result of this study the following recommendations are offered:

1. Determine the optimal ratio that maximizes calorific value while considering factors like

availability and cost of materials.

2. Explore different types of adhesives beyond tapioca starch, considering factors like cost,

availability, and their impact on the briquettes' burning characteristics.

3. Further study is needed.

 CHAPTER VI- BIBLIOGRAPHY

Briquette Intro excerpted - KMEC Briquette Machine. (n.d.).

https://www.woodbriquetteplant.com/news/What-Is-Briquette-I.html

Brozek, M. (2013). Properties of Briquettes from Paper Waste. MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY,

13(2), 138–142. https://doi.org/10.21062/ujep/x.2013/a/1213-2489/mt/13/2/138

Islam, M. H., Hossain, M. M., & Momin, M. A. (2014). Development of Briquette from Coir Dust and

Rice Husk Blend: An Alternative Energy Source. International Journal of Renewable Energy

Development, 3(2), 119–123. https://doi.org/10.14710/ijred.3.2.119-123

Saha, K., Hossain, M., Ali, & Alam, M. (2016). Feasibility study of coconut coir dust briquette. Journal

of the Bangladesh Agricultural University, 12(2), 369–376.

https://doi.org/10.3329/jbau.v12i2.28697