Coconut briquettes are now becoming one of the alternative energy solutions that are increasingly in demand. By utilizing coconut shell waste, these briquettes offer the advantage of being environmentally friendly as well as efficient in their use.
Benefits of Using Coconut Briquettes
- Environmentally Friendly: Coconut briquettes are made from natural materials that can be biodegraded.
- Energy Efficiency: Coconut briquettes have a high calorific value, so the heat produced is more optimal.
- Economical: Making coconut briquettes can be done at a low cost, especially if the raw materials are available around you.
- Reducing Waste: Utilizing coconut shells as raw materials helps reduce organic waste.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before starting the manufacturing process, make sure you have prepared the following materials and tools
Materials:
- Coconut shells (dry and clean)
- Starch flour (natural adhesive)
- Sufficient water
Tools:
- Coconut shell crusher (machine or manual)
- Mixing container
- Briquette mold
- Burning furnace
- Sieve or sieve
Steps to Make Coconut Briquettes
Here is a complete guide to making coconut briquettes practically
1. Charcoaling Coconut Shells
The first step is to turn coconut shells into charcoal, Here's how
- Burn the coconut shells in a closed furnace to prevent complete combustion.
- Make sure the fire is not too big so that the charcoal produced is of good quality.
- After the process is complete, let the charcoal cool before proceeding to the next stage.
2. Crushing Charcoal
After the charcoal has cooled, crush it into a fine powder. Use a crusher or pound it manually. Sift the charcoal powder with a sieve to get uniform sized particles.
3. Mixing Ingredients
Mix the charcoal powder with the starch solution as an adhesive. Use a ratio of 90:10 between charcoal and adhesive. Stir until evenly mixed to form a dough that is easy to shape.
4. Molding Briquettes
Place the dough into the briquette mold and press until solid. Special molds can be used, but if they are not available, simple tools such as PVC pipes or used cans can also be used.
5. Drying
Dry the molded briquettes in direct sunlight or using a drying oven. Make sure the briquettes are completely dry so that they are easy to ignite and provide maximum heat.
6. Packaging
Once dry, the briquettes are ready to be used or sold. Store in tight packaging to protect them from moisture.
Tips for Maximum Results
- Use really dry coconut shells to produce high-quality charcoal.
- Make sure the mixture of charcoal powder and adhesive is done evenly so that the briquettes are not easily brittle.
- If possible, utilize modern machines to increase production efficiency and consistency.