A comparative evaluation on the physicochemical properties of sugarcane residues for thermal conversion processes

Abstract

Sugarcane straw (SCS), sugarcane bagasse (SCB), and sugarcane bagasse pith (SBP) are three significant and widely produced by-products and wastes of sugarcane cultivation around the world. In this study, a comparative investigation on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of sugarcane residues for the thermal conversion processes was conducted with a particular emphasis on the thermal decomposition of sugarcane residues. In this regard, the physicochemical and thermogravimetric evaluation of SCS, SCB, and SBP for thermal conversion has been thoroughly examined using a comprehensive set of experiments. The suitability of the samples, particularly as feedstock for the pyrolysis process, was investigated in detail using proximate, ultimate, and compositional analyses. In addition, the molecular structure and main fragments of the three samples were compared and discussed. Accordingly, the effect of the structural unit of functional parts of the three main biopolymeric components of sugarcane residue, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, and their interactions on the thermal stability of SCS, SCB, and SBP for the pyrolysis process has been determined. Also, a comprehensive review was carried out to compare the results of the study to the findings of the relevant literature. The outcome of the study could provide reliable information for the design and optimization of the thermal conversion processes using various sugarcane residues.