We tried to compress the sawdust but research and failure taught that 18 tonnes of pressure were needed to get the wood to self bond. The oil didn't seem to help much.
Despite much Heath Robinson with hydraulic jacks, presses and an adapted electric screw log splitter, we never came out with anything worth the work involved.
That said, we must remember that I am somewhat of an idiot.
So, it by no means, means that it cannot be done well.
What I do recall was reading a web post of someone who had a good result from soaking newspaper in water with bleach then filliing a length of 5inch plastic pipe with the slurry and compressing, piston style. Many small holes were drilled in the pipe to let out the water.
By that point, I had to move home and didn't have a burner anymore. So I gave up.
On the subject of waste cooking oil, that has become a valuable resource. At least in my area. So it's hard to come by for free or even cheap. As I say, in my area at least. But if you can come by it, it could make a handy binder.
But, again, I am somewhat of an idiot
