<![CDATA[The need for environmentally friendly auxiliary materials capable of maintaining high temperatures in furnaces is crucial to accelerate the tin smelting process in the tin smelting industry. Coal briquettes have great potential as an alternative fuel due to their high calorific value and resistance to extreme heat. However, an optimal composition that meets industrial requirements particularly in terms of physical quality and energy efficiency has yet to be determined. This study aims to optimize the production of coal briquettes using natural binders in the form of molasses and tapioca flour. The method used is Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD) to evaluate the effect of independent variables such as binder percentage (10%, 12.5%, 15%), drying temperature (70°C, 90°C, 110°C), pressing pressure (8 MPa, 10 MPa, 12 MPa), and heating time (60, 90, 120 minutes) on the quality of the briquettes. The observed responses were moisture content and compressive strength. The analysis showed that drying temperature had the most significant influence in reducing moisture content, while pressure and binder percentage played key roles in increasing compressive strength. The optimal combination for the highest compressive strength (808 kPa) was obtained at 10% binder, 70°C drying temperature, 8 MPa pressure, and 120 minutes of heating. Meanwhile, the lowest moisture content (4.00%) was achieved at 12.5% binder, 90°C, 8 MPa, and 90 minutes. Thus, the RSM method proved effective in optimizing process parameters for coal briquette production to meet the needs of the tin smelting industry.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
