Manufacturing coconut shell charcoal briquettes involves several key steps, including carbonization, crushing, mixing, briquetting, and drying. Below is a detailed guide on how to make them:

1. Raw Material Selection

• Use dried coconut shells as the main raw material.
• Ensure the shells are clean and dry, free from moisture, dust, or any contaminants.

2. Carbonization Process

Objective: Convert coconut shells into charcoal.

Method 1: Traditional Pit/Drum Carbonization

1. Place coconut shells in a kiln or drum.
2. Ignite a fire at the bottom and allow slow burning with limited oxygen.
3. Maintain the temperature around 400-600°C for 3-5 hours.
4. Once the shells turn black (charcoal), cool them completely.

Method 2: Advanced Carbonization Machine

• Uses a controlled process for better efficiency and higher yield.

3. Crushing & Grinding

• Once cooled, crush the charcoal into fine powder (below 3mm particle size).
• Use a hammer mill, crusher, or grinder to ensure consistency.

4. Mixing with Binder & Water

• Mix the charcoal powder with a natural binder (e.g., tapioca starch, cornstarch, or molasses).
• Use a ratio of 3-5% binder by weight.
• Gradually add water to create a dough-like consistency.

5. Briquetting (Shaping)

• Use a briquette machine (extruder, roller press, or hydraulic press) to shape the mixture into desired forms:
  • Pillow-shaped
  • Hexagonal
  • Cylindrical
  • Cubic
• Ensure firm and compact briquettes.

6. Drying Process

• Dry the briquettes in direct sunlight or use an industrial dryer.
• Reduce moisture content to below 10%.
• Drying time: 24-48 hours (depending on method and weather).

7. Carbon Activation (Optional)

• For activated charcoal, the briquettes can be further heated at 800-1000°C in a controlled environment.

8. Packaging & Storage

• Pack in moisture-proof bags.
• Store in dry, ventilated areas.

Uses of Coconut Charcoal Briquettes

• BBQ and grilling
• Shisha/hookah
• Industrial fuel
• Air and water purification (if activated)

Key Benefits of Coconut Shell Charcoal Briquettes

✅ Eco-friendly – Renewable and sustainable.
✅ Long-burning time – Lasts 2-3 times longer than regular wood charcoal.
✅ Smokeless & Odorless – Ideal for indoor use.
✅ High calorific value – Produces more heat with less ash.