Evaluation of Optimum Composition of Starch as a Binding Material for Square Coal Briquettes

Various coal samples from Darra Adam Khel (KPK province of Pakistan) region were collected for making the square shaped coal briquettes. Starch solutions of different concentrations were used as organic binding material. Coal briquettes were made using an indigenously designed and fabricated lab scale apparatus. Firstly the calorific values of these coal briquettes were evaluated using Bomb calorimeter. The strength of the prepared samples was analyzed by compression test carried out by Universal Testing Machine (UTM) respectively. This resulted in data generation for determining strength of these briquettes. The set of results obtained for these square coal briquettes were then compared among themselves to find the optimum performance value of starch solution as a binding material. The results in terms of strength and combustion calculation of this research work will help in gaining concentration of implementing bodies for application on a pilot scale. This project is aimed to reduce load on the current trend of extensive deforestation by providing an alternative energy source. Proper utilization of this project will help our country in overcoming current energy crisis.