The Impact of Fractional Composition on the Mechanical Properties of Agglomerated Logging Residues

Abstract

Fractional composition, as well as the temperature of the agglomeration process, affect the quality and mechanical properties of briquettes. In this research, shredded forest logging residues were investigated. Compaction tests were carried out for several specially prepared mixtures made of shares of fractions with different particle sizes. The moisture content, density of briquettes, specific work of compaction, mechanical durability, and biomass susceptibility to compaction were analyzed. Studies have confirmed the significant impact of the fractional composition of compacted biomass on its susceptibility to process parameters and the quality of the final product. Statistical analysis confirmed that the density of the briquette, its durability, the specific work of compaction, and the susceptibility of the tested biomass to compaction strongly depend on the particle size of the compacted biomass. An increase in temperature to 73 °C increased specific work by 40% and contributed to the high quality of briquettes in the range from 0.768 to 1.14 g·cm−3.