P-197 Potential Use of Dried Faecal Sludge in Briquettes Production in Tanzania; Addressing Public Health, Environmental and Energy Challenges

Abstract Introduction Domestic and industrial activities struggle to find affordable, reliable, and eco-friendly cooking fuel. Traditional fuelwood is negatively impacting the environment and consumer’s health. Concurrently, Tanzania faces challenges in managing faecal sludge, risking water sources, and threatening public health. This study explores the potential use of faecal sludge as an energy fuel through briquetting technology for addressing waste management and energy recovery. Methods The study examined faecal sludge briquettes from treatment facilities in combination with wastepaper, cassava peels, and banana peels (cooked and uncooked) as feedstocks. The manual pressing machine was used for briquettes fabrication. Moisture content of briquettes was determined using the oven dry method. To determine the energy properties, the following parameters were analysed: The Moisture Content percentage, Fixed carbon, and High Heating Value. Results Wastepaper 25% briquettes achieved recommended moisture content (10%). Increasing binder concentration led to an increase of moisture. Briquettes with 75% wastepaper presented low moisture and high fixed carbon. Briquettes with 75% wastepaper showed the highest heating value (21MJ/Kg). Statistical analysis showed no significant differences. Discussion Moisture content, volatile matter, ash content, fixed carbon, and high heating value of fabricated briquettes analysis showed that briquettes with wastepaper at 75% binder concentration present highest calorific values. This high energy value indicates that such briquettes can be a more efficient fuel source for industrial and domestic uses. Conclusion This finding suggests that these briquettes can serve as a promising solution for both domestic and industrial energy requirements. Further research on alternative binders is recommended.