Production and Characterization of Briquettes from Agricultural Wastes for Sustainable Energy Solutions

Umar, Ahmed
Gbenga, Abdulrahman Abdulmumin
Yusuf, Muhammad-Najeeb Oluwafemi
Faridah, Abdulrasheed
Emmanuel, Adeyemo Tijesunimi
Adekitan, Ajuwon Fadhilat

ASEAN Journal for Science and Engineering in Materials
Vol 4, No 2 (2025): (ONLINE FIRST) AJSEM: Volume 4, Issue 2, September 2025

The study evaluates the potential of rice husk (RH) and sawdust (SD) as energy sources by analyzing their physicochemical properties and combustion efficiencies. These common waste materials from Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria, were processed into briquettes at varying ratios. Proximate analysis showed moisture content of 7.5–9.2% and ash content of 2.1–3.5%. Calorific values ranged from 18,509.84 kJ/kg (100% SD) to 22,658.77 kJ/kg (100% RH). The burning rate (BR) correlated with calorific value, with the 50:50 SD/RH mixture having the highest BR (0.003 g/min), indicating rapid combustion, while 100% SD had the lowest BR (0.0015 g/min), supporting slower combustion. All briquettes exhibited smokeless behavior, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and offering a clean energy alternative. This study highlights the potential of agricultural waste for energy security, environmental management, and rural economic development in Nigeria.