Characterization of Rice Husk Briquette Mixed with Cassava Starch and Clay Paste for Optimum Heat Generation

Abstract

The reuse and recycle of rice husk waste help to reduce huge volumes of rice husk from milling industries and solve environmental challenges. In this study, the best mix ratio of rice husk briquette mixed with cassava starch for optimum heat generation was determined. It also determined the effect of clay paste on the heat generation property of the rice husk briquette. Rice husk briquettes with 0.15 – 0.20 cm/s flame propagation and density of 0.2041 – 0.2449 g/cm³ were used. Two sets of specimen were prepared.  Specimen I was the rice husk – cassava starch mixture. It was mixed at the mixing ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50. Specimen II, which was rice husk – cassava starch – clay paste mixture, was mixed at the mixing ratios of 90:8:2, 80:16:4, 70:24:6, 60:32:8, and 50:40:10. The response of heat generation to the mix ratio changes and effect of clay paste on heat generation property were determined. The findings of the study indicate that an increase of the proportion of cassava starch in the rice husk briquette increases heat generation but reduces longevity of the rice husk briquette. The optimum heat generation mix ratio was identified to be 80:20, since it takes the minimum time (6 minutes) to reach the boiling point of water without total extinction of the briquette. Clay paste additive increases heat generation and longevity of rice husk briquette. A 20 % clay paste replacement of cassava starch reduces the boiling time of the water by 1 minute for the 80:20 mix ratios. Clay paste has potential to be used as an additive in the production of briquettes for increased heat generation and longevity. The findings of the study could find application in the waste reuse and recycling industries.