Engineering Innovation from Waste-to-Energy Utilizing Manual Biomass Briquetting Machine for Rural Communities

Abstract

This study addresses biomass and agricultural waste management by integrating engineering innovation with community extension initiatives. It focuses on designing and developing a manual extruder machine for biomass briquette production, providing an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to traditional cooking fuels. The machine is specifically tailored for small-scale or household applications, converting agricultural residues into compacted cylindrical briquettes, thus reducing waste accumulation and offering an eco-friendly solution to energy needs. The engineering novelty lies in the manual screw-type extruder mechanism with a tapered shaft and barrel, driven by a crankshaft and gear system. This distinctive design enhances compaction efficiency and eliminates the need for electrical power, making it highly adaptable for off-grid rural communities. The machine effectively processes various biomass materials, including coconut sawdust, bamboo shavings, and mahogany shells, ensuring versatility and optimal briquette formation. Key components include a hopper, compaction chamber, screw-type extruder, handle wheel, crankshaft, and frame. Performance evaluations included moisture content analysis and heating efficiency tests. Results from 20 moisture content samples revealed that coconut sawdust had an average of 12.09% moisture content and a burning efficiency of 76 minutes, while a mix of coconut sawdust and bamboo shavings recorded 11.49% moisture content and 56 minutes efficiency. A combination of mahogany shells, coconut, and bamboo sawdust achieved 10.70% moisture content and 61 minutes efficiency. Using Garvin’s Eight Dimensions of Quality, the machine received an acceptability rating above 4.45, while the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) rated its perceived usefulness and ease of use at 4.63, indicating strong user acceptance. This research demonstrates how technology management and innovations in engineering can drive sustainable development. By providing a low-cost, scalable briquetting solution, the study empowers local communities, promotes waste-to-energy conversion, and supports environmentally responsible resource utilization.