Utilization of Palm Oil Waste as Raw Material for Making Environmentally Friendly Biobriquettes
Keywords:
Biobriquettes, Palm Oil Waste, Renewable Energy, Calorific Value, Exhaust EmissionsAbstract
Purpose: This study aims to analyze the potential use of palm oil waste, specifically shells, fibers, and empty fruit bunches (EFB), as raw materials for environmentally friendly biobriquettes. The research focuses on chemical composition, calorific value, combustion time, and exhaust emissions to assess the feasibility of biobriquettes as a renewable energy alternative that can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Subjects and Methods: The research subjects consisted of three types of solid palm oil waste: shells, fiber, and empty fruit bunches. Analysis was conducted on moisture, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and ash content. Biobriquettes were then produced through a carbonization process, mixing with adhesive, and pressing. Calorific value testing was performed using a bomb calorimeter, while exhaust gas emissions measured CO, CO₂, SO₂, and particulate matter. Data were analyzed descriptively and comparatively to determine differences in the performance of each type of biobriquette.
Results: The results showed that palm kernel shells had the highest lignin content (38.2%), the highest calorific value (18.2 MJ/kg), a burning time of 95 minutes, and relatively low exhaust emissions (CO 115 ppm and particulate matter 65 mg/Nm³). Palm fiber produced a calorific value of 15.1 MJ/kg with CO emissions of 130 ppm, while EFB showed the lowest quality with a calorific value of 12.3 MJ/kg and the highest emissions (CO 145 ppm and particulate matter 88 mg/Nm³).
Conclusions: Palm kernel shells have proven to be the most promising raw material for biobriquettes, offering high energy quality and low emissions. Fiber can be an additional alternative, and EFB is more suitable for use through biomass blending or emission control technologies. Utilizing palm oil waste as biobriquettes significantly contributes to energy diversification, industrial waste management, and sustainable energy development in Indonesia.
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