Production of Corncob (Zea mays L.) and Rice Husk (Oryza sativa) Briquettes Using the Pyrolysis Method as an Alternative Energy Source

Abstract

This study aims to utilize agricultural waste in the form of corn cobs (Zea mays L.) and rice husks (Oryza sativa) as raw materials for briquette production through the pyrolysis method to generate environmentally friendly alternative energy. The background of this research is based on the high production of agricultural waste that has not been optimally utilized and the increasing energy demand that requires renewable energy sources. The research method includes several stages: drying the raw materials, performing pyrolysis to produce charcoal, grinding and mixing with a binder, and molding the mixture into briquettes. The observed parameters include moisture content, ash content, calorific value, and burning time of the briquettes. The results showed that the combination of corn cobs and rice husks produced briquettes with good quality, characterized by low moisture content, relatively high calorific value, and stable burning performance. These findings demonstrate that corn cobs and rice husks waste can be processed into briquettes as an alternative energy source with the potential to replace fossil fuels and support the concept of sustainable energy.