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International Journal of Renewable, Green, and Sustainable Energy

Open Access Peer Review International
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Comprehensive Characterization and Optimization of Hybrid Biomass Briquettes Formulated from Low- and High-Density Wood Sawdust and Palm Kernel Shell Waste

DOI https://doi.org/10.55640/ijrgse-v03i08-01
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Budi Santoso 1 , Siti Nurhaliza 1 ,
4 Department of Sustainable Energy Systems, Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
4 Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable and low-emission energy alternatives has intensified interest in biomass-derived solid fuels, particularly briquettes produced from agro-industrial residues. This study investigates the characterization and optimization of hybrid biomass briquettes formulated from low- and high-density wood sawdust blended with palm kernel shell (PKS) waste. The research focuses on evaluating the physicochemical, mechanical, and combustion properties of the composite fuel, with emphasis on how feedstock heterogeneity influences performance outcomes such as calorific value, density, moisture content, and combustion efficiency. Prior studies indicate that wood sawdust possesses favorable energy conversion potential, while palm kernel shells exhibit high carbon content and improved thermal stability, making their combination highly promising for densified biofuel applications (Alizadeh et al., 2023).

A structured review of densification processes, biomass blending strategies, and optimization approaches is integrated to establish a theoretical foundation for hybrid briquette formulation. Experimental design considerations, including compaction pressure, particle size distribution, and carbonization effects, are discussed to support performance optimization. The study further examines how hybridization enhances fuel stability compared to single-feedstock briquettes. Results from prior research demonstrate that optimized biomass mixtures significantly improve combustion rate, structural integrity, and energy density.

The findings highlight that hybrid briquetting not only improves waste valorization efficiency but also contributes to circular bioeconomy frameworks by converting lignocellulosic residues into value-added solid fuels. However, variability in feedstock composition and limited standardization in production parameters remain critical challenges. The study concludes that optimized hybrid biomass briquettes offer a viable pathway for decentralized renewable energy systems, particularly in regions with abundant agricultural and forestry residues.

Keywords

Biomass briquettes, palm kernel shell, sawdust densification

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