Characteristic of Areca Fiber Briquettes as Alternative Energy

Abstract

The level of demand and use of fuel oil in Indonesia has exceeded domestic production. So that the acceleration of the choice of alternative energy adoption becomes a step and effort to overcome this problem. Efforts to develop a diversified solid fuel product program in the form of areca-based fiber briquettes are the choice. Areca nut is a natural fiber derived from Areca Catechu which has the potential to be used as a raw material for making briquettes which has only been a waste in the community. The experimental method carried out in the manufacture of briquettes is a mixture of areca fiber (particle) and tapioca adhesive in a variation ratio of areca fiber concentration of 90%, 80%, 70%, and 60%. This research resulted in the characteristics of areca fiber briquettes with a concentration variation of 80% of areca fiber and 20% tapioca adhesive which has the highest heating value of 12352.9 kJ/kg with a density of 318.71 kg/m³. Success in processing and producing briquettes in correctional facilities can reduce dependence on fuel oil. Areca fiber-based briquette development as an effort to get alternative energy that has quality products. The use of areca fiber waste as an alternative fuel substitute can be realized in the community to achieve national energy security through the process of applying technology.