Empirical models for physical properties of abura (Mitragyna ciliata) sawdust briquettes using response surface methodology
J.I. Orisaleye, S.O. Jekayinfa, Olawale Mumin Braimoh, Victor Oghenereke Edhere
Abstract
Biomass densification is a complex process with each biomass having a unique set of variables from which briquettes of desirable quality can be produced. This study produced briquettes under different process conditions from Abura (Mitragyna ciliata) sawdust. The moisture content of the sawdust was 14.84%. Process variables considered were temperature, hold time and pressure. Predictive models were developed using response surface methodology and a Box-Behnken experimental design was adopted in the study. The study found that temperature, hold time, pressure, square term of pressure, and interaction of pressure and temperature were statistically significant (p < 0.05) in determining the density of the sawdust briquettes. Only linear terms of temperature and hold time were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for determining the water resistance of the sawdust briquettes. The response surface models developed had close prediction to experimental values. Surface plots showed how combination of the statistically significant terms within the model determine the quality of the sawdust briquettes.