The production of briquetted biochar to meet market demand

Main Article Content

Pran makarkard
Jinda Sirita
Sasiwimon Puphoung
Aunyanee Katepan
Nongnoot Srilek

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the physical characteristics, combustion performance, thermal properties, and economic feasibility of briquetted biochar produced by two community enterprises (BS and JJ), in comparison with five commercially available briquetted biochar samples collected from local markets in Phan and Mueang Districts, Chiang Rai Province. The evaluation was conducted in accordance with the Community Product Standard for briquetted biochar (TISI 238/2547).
The results revealed that all samples exhibited higher heating values (HHVs) exceeding 20.93 MJ/kg. The HHVs of samples BS and JJ were 24.10 ± 0.08 and 22.15 ± 0.20 MJ/kg, respectively. However, the moisture contents of the community-produced briquettes were higher than those of several commercial samples, which affected combustion quality. In particular, sample JJ showed higher smoke emissions, indicating a need for further improvement in the production process. Economic analysis indicated that the initial investment ranged from 45,000 to 70,000 THB, with a production capacity of approximately 100 kg per day and a suitable selling price of 15–20 THB/kg. The estimated payback period was 7–8 months. Overall, the findings demonstrate the potential for improving the quality and market competitiveness of community-based briquetted biochar, supporting sustainable local economic development.

Article Details

Section
Research articles

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