MIXTURE OF MANGIFERA INDICA (MANGO) AND PERSEA AMERICANA (AVOCADO) WASTE SEEDS AS POTENTIAL ECO-BRIQUETTES

Abstract

Briquettes, originally named for their brick-like shape, now come in various sizes and forms. This study investigates the potential of utilizing waste seeds from Mangifera indica (mango) and Persea americana (avocado) to produce eco-friendly briquettes. Prior research has demonstrated the feasibility of creating ecological briquettes from avocado pits, combining them with sawdust and binders to achieve high calorific values and reduced CO₂ emissions. 

 Similarly, studies on mango seed shells have shown that briquettes produced under specific conditions exhibit favorable properties, such as high density and calorific value, indicating their potential as sustainable energy sources. 

 Building upon these findings, this study aims to explore the combined use of mango and avocado waste seeds in briquette production, assessing their effectiveness as alternative biofuels and contributing to waste reduction and sustainable energy solutions. This experimental study evaluates the suitability of Mangifera indica (mango) and Persea americana (avocado) waste seeds for producing eco-friendly briquettes. The research focuses on assessing the properties, durability, and potential differences between briquettes made from these materials.

Previous studies have demonstrated the viability of using mango seed shells in briquette production. Briquettes produced through hot compression methods exhibited densities ranging from 1184 to 1281 kg/m³ and durability between 88.04% and 94.31%. These briquettes also showed a calorific value of approximately 4468.67 kcal/kg, indicating their potential as a sustainable energy source. 

Similarly, research on avocado pit waste has shown promising results. Ecological briquettes composed of avocado pits, sawdust, and cassava binder achieved high calorific values and reduced CO₂ emissions. The optimal composition was found to be 70 g of avocado pit, 20 g of sawdust, and 30 g of binder, resulting in briquettes suitable for domestic cooking and other applications. 

This study aims to build upon these findings by comparing the properties and durability of briquettes made from mango and avocado waste seeds. By analyzing factors such as density, calorific value, and combustion efficiency, the research seeks to determine the feasibility of utilizing these agricultural wastes as alternative biofuels. The outcomes could contribute to sustainable waste management practices and provide eco-friendly energy solutions. the experimental results reveal a t-value of -1.958 and a p-value of 0.122 from the t-test analysis. Given that the p-value exceeds the alpha level of 0.05, the null hypothesis is not rejected. This indicates no statistically significant difference in the burning times between the two fuel types, suggesting that the mixture of mango and avocado waste seeds does not significantly impact their potential use as eco-briquettes.

It's important to note that a p-value greater than 0.05 implies that any observed differences are likely due to random variation rather than a true effect. Therefore, while the combination of these waste seeds may still offer environmental benefits, their efficacy as eco-briquettes, in terms of burning time, is comparable to other fuel types tested. The findings of this study advocate for the utilization of mango and avocado waste seeds in the production of eco-friendly briquettes. This practice not only offers a sustainable energy alternative but also addresses waste management challenges associated with these agricultural by-products.

Prior research supports the feasibility of this approach. For instance, studies have demonstrated that briquettes made from avocado pits, sawdust, and cassava binder exhibit high calorific values and reduced CO₂ emissions, making them suitable for domestic cooking and other applications. 

 Similarly, research on mango seed shells has shown that briquettes produced under specific conditions possess favorable properties, such as high density and calorific value, indicating their potential as sustainable energy sources. 

By promoting the use of these waste materials in briquette production, this study contributes to environmental conservation efforts and offers a viable solution for renewable energy generation.