Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Torrefied Corncob and Rice Husk Briquettes: Modeling and Simulation

Energy security and a green environment have called for global concern in recent years. This is due to the increase in global population and unconscious human activities, which has led to the thickening of the infrared radiation layer, emission of greenhouse gases, and global warming. In this study, solid fuel briquette was manufactured from a blend of torrefied corncob and rice husk to mitigate the environmental problem associated with their disposal. Experimental, modeling, and simulation approaches were employed for the investigation. Feedstock samples were prepared and torrefied at 260 °C for 60 min, after which it was pulverized and screened into 1.7, 1, and 0.5 mm. Briquettes were produced at different blending ratios and compaction pressure, and gelatinized starch was used as a binding agent. The mechanical properties (compressive strength and shatter index) of the manufactured briquettes were investigated. Findings show that blending ratio and compaction pressure significantly influence the mechanical properties of the manufactured briquettes. Empirical models developed for 60, 80, and 100 kPa densification pressure were able to predict the trend of the mechanical properties of the manufactured briquettes. The models developed in this study found applications in future biomass briquettes production and product design.