Analysis of Higher Heating Value (HHV) Briquettes from Vitex Pinnata Charcoal to Enhance Energy and Economic Value in Tapuk Village to Support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Completed with Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the calorific performance of halaban (Vitex pinnata) charcoal briquettes and to identify an operating window that village producers can reliably apply. This study was also completed with a bibliometric analysis. Charcoal powder from local producers was molded with starch binder under varied pressing intensities, dried, and characterized by proximate analysis and bomb calorimetry following relevant standards. The lower pressing intensity with a modest starch proportion delivered the highest heating value alongside low moisture, low ash, and sustained fixed carbon. This configuration outperformed higher compaction because reduced densification preserved pore pathways, improved drying, limited volatile dilution, and maintained the carbon-rich fraction, whereas excessive compaction trapped residual water and marginally suppressed fixed carbon despite stronger mechanics. The recommended setting supports cleaner, more stable combustion, shorter cooking times, and higher sale value for standardized briquettes, enabling down-streaming for rural livelihoods and contributing to accessible renewable energy when paired with quality control, training, and simple drying management at the producer scale. This study supports current issues in sustainable development goals (SDGs).