[Stoves] Briquette Successes in DR Congo

[frank]

Hi Stovers,
Just wondering for those making briquettes if there are test methods for 
determining how well the binder works. I know Jeff uses a 'drop' method 
but i am wondering if other procedures are being used. If we are going 
to experiment to find the best binders there needs to be a way to 
measure how well they work. Perhaps compression or 'pulling them apart' 
approach?

thanks
frank.

Jeff Davis wrote:

>There should be a future for this species of binder:
>
><http://www.puffergas.com/fireballs/algaebinder/algaebinder1.html>
>
>
>Regards,
>
>Jeff
>
>
>
>  
>
>>George,
>>
>>What we have found is that the tech you refer to is somewhat limited
>>to using paper and sawdust. It is next to impossible to make agro-
>>residue briquettes with little or no paper (which will be the case
>>for most rural areas) in the press described. Added steps are
>>necessary for pbiodegrading the ag residues as well but one is
>>rewarded with a far mroe stable and flexible resource supply
>>situation and a better product, in the long run.
>>One big problem many have is that they start out with paper and get
>>off to an easy start but then run out of paper and get stuck.
>>
>>It seems to me that its better to train the producer in the real art
>>of what make a briquette bind and burn WITHOUT paper first, so that
>>they are well equipped to sustian themselves.  The interesting thing
>>too is that paper really is not an ideal rduct for combustion. Go for
>>organic ag residues, if you really want efficienty and real heat and
>>aroma...
>>
>>pressing on...
>>
>>Richard Stanley,
>>Legacy Foundation
>>www.legacyfound.org
>>State of Jefferson
>>    
>>
>
>
>  
>

-- 
Frank Shields
Soil Control Lab
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frank at compostlab.com
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