Sugarcane bagasse is an abundant agricultural by-product in Indonesia due to high sugarcane production, particularly in major producing provinces. The limited utilization of bagasse may cause environmental problems, highlighting the need for sustainable waste management strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of sugarcane bagasse as a raw material for biobriquettes and to analyze the effect of different charcoal binder compositions on the physical and mechanical properties of the briquettes. The research was conducted at the Biosystems Engineering Laboratory using carbonized sugarcane bagasse (biochar) molded into briquettes with a pressing pressure of 50 kg/cm². Four composition ratios were applied, namely 45:5, 46:4, 47:3, and 48:2 (g of charcoal : g of tapioca binder). The briquettes were evaluated based on density, dimensional stability, moisture content, mechanical strength using a drop test, and combustion rate. The results showed that briquettes with a composition of 45 g charcoal and 5 g binder exhibited the highest density (approximately 0.59 g/cm³) and the lowest drop test value, indicating strong mechanical integrity. All samples demonstrated low moisture content (0.35–1.94%), which contributes to efficient and stable combustion. Variations in material composition significantly influenced the stability and combustion characteristics of the briquettes. Overall, sugarcane bagasse shows strong potential as a sustainable and environmentally friendly raw material for producing high-quality biobriquettes as an alternative renewable energy source.
Copyrights © 2026