Briquets

Briquets, or briquettes, are compacted blocks of fuel formed by binding together small particles such as coal dust, charcoal fines, or biomass residues. They are designed to produce steady heat and are used for cooking, heating, and as a fuel in grills and stoves.

Most briquets fall into three broad categories: coal briquets, charcoal briquets, and biomass briquets. Coal briquets are made from finely ground coal with a binder and can burn for extended periods; charcoal briquets are formed from charcoal dust and a binder, producing cleaner burning with a lower ash content; biomass briquets use agricultural or forestry residues (sawdust, husks, or other fibrous materials) bound into blocks.

Manufacture typically involves grinding or milling the material, mixing in a binder such as starch, molasses, lignosulfonates, or wax, forming into shapes (often cylinders or bricks) by pressing, and drying or carbonizing to reduce moisture and improve durability.

Uses and distribution: Briquets are widely used for home heating in parts of Asia and Europe, and for grilling and barbecuing worldwide. They are manufactured in various sizes and shapes to fit stoves, grills, or fireplaces.

Advantages and considerations: Briquets offer higher density, easier handling, and a more uniform burn than loose fuel, with longer burning times and reduced smoke in many cases. Quality and additives affect performance and emissions; poor-quality briquets can produce more ash, odour, or soot and may contain binders that release undesirable compounds.

Safety and environmental aspects: Use briquets in well-ventilated areas and follow manufacturer instructions. Biomass briquettes are often marketed as renewable, but overall environmental impact depends on material sources, binders, and production energy. Proper storage protects against moisture and mold.