Miscanthus X Giganteus Research Articles

Miscanthus giganteus in the Middle Volga region: opportunities and prospects

The main raw material for the production of cellulose is wood, which is also used as fuel, but it takes at least 80 years to regenerate forests. Therefore, it became necessary to find other possible sources of energy and cellulose. Miscanthus giganteus could become a possible and efficient renewable raw material. It also could replace forest crops in several ways. In this regard, in the Middle Volga region, which belongs to the zone of unstable moisture, the current research has been carried out since 2013 on the application of Miscanthus giganteus in light gray soil. Well-formed plants in the year the sowing with sufficient moisture provided the yield of the aboveground mass of 14 t/ha, in the second year it increased 2 times, in the third, despite the arid conditions, it reached 36 t/ha. The next two years were the most productive, when, with sufficient moisture, it was received 40 and 41 t/ha. In the severely arid years 2018 and 2019, it decreased by 9 and 11 t/ha, respectively, in relation to the fifth year of growing. The growing season of the last two years was favorable, but precipitation fell earlier or later than the critical phases of Miscanthus giganteus growing, which led to a decrease in yield to 25 t/ha. On average, per year, starting from the second year of growing, it could form 32 t/ha of energy biomass, which in terms of cellulose content, depending on the age of plants, is equal to wood (48.10-59.81%), and in terms of calorific value, raw materials correspond to the European standards.

Harvesting Technologies and Costs of Biomass Production from Energy Crops Cultivated on Farms in the Małopolska Region

This study aimed to assess biomass production costs from perennial energy crops, such as Miscanthus giganteus, Sida hermaphrodita, and coppiced willow, in selected agricultural holdings. This assessment was based on applied technologies for harvesting the biomass of the energy crops mentioned above. The scope of the study included research on ten farms located in Małopolska and establishing the possibility of biomass production from selected energy crops in these entities. Biomass production costs have been estimated using the computer application “Bioalkylation”. The result of the research was the answer to the question: what can be the cost range of biomass production from perennial energy crops for the crops Miscanthus giganteus, Sida hermaphrodita, and coppiced willow as the most popular plants? The study shows that production costs depend primarily on the harvesting technology used and the machinery used in the farm. The harvest with rotary mowers, small presses, and windrows was applied regarding Miscanthus giganteus and Sida hermaphrodita. The costs of biomass production were, on average, 424.7 EUR ha−1 for Miscanthus giganteus and 278.9 EUR ha−1 for Sida hermaphrodita. Concerning tonne, this was 37.6 EUR t−1 for Miscanthus giganteus and 30.0 EUR t−1 for Sida hermaphrodita, respectively. In the case of harvesting energy willow, in the form of whole shoots, inefficient and labour-intensive technologies using chainsaws and combustion cutters were applied. The biomass production costs were thus the highest among the assessed plants and amounted, on average, to 612.1 EUR ha−1, which in terms of tonne corresponded to a value of 30.6 EUR. The obtained results and the analysis presented in the paper may help in planning the cultivation of perennial energy crops in order to obtain biomass used for heating purposes on a farm.

Продуктивність багаторічних трав’янистих рослин при вирощуванні для енергетичних потреб

Goal. To carry out a comparative assessment of perennial grasses on the energy productivity of biomass and optimize harvesting times for the production of solid biofuels. Methods. Field, laboratory, mathematical and statistical, computational and comparative. Results. The results of researches on the selection of uncommon energy crops and optimization of terms of their mowing for production of solid types of biofuels in the conditions of the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine are given. The highest linear growth was characterized by the Jerusalem artichoke grassland of the 1st year of use. The diameter of the stem of energy crops was 2.8–16.8 mm. The largest diameter of the stem had stagger bushes, perennial mallow, and Jerusalem artichoke of the 1st year of use. The highest density and energy consumption of 1 m3 of dry unpressed wood was characterized by perennial mallow, Jerusalem artichoke, giant miscanthus, Transbaikalian stagger bush with parameters of 125–138 kg/m3 and 2–2.56 GJ, respectively. The terms of mowing crops during harvesting in the autumn period for the production of solid biofuels according to the dry matter content in biomass have been optimized. Conclusions. Of the perennial energy crops on dark gray soils, the most productive are: giant miscanthus, Silphium perfoliatum L., Weirich and Sakhalin stagger bushes, perennial mallow, Jerusalem artichoke of the 1st year of use with the parameters of 11.1–15.8 t/ha of dry weight, 194–281 GJ/ha of warm energy and 6–8.6 t/ha of equivalent fuel. Harvest maturity of the studied crops (except for fodder sorrel) for the production of solid biofuels occurs in the late autumn period (10.11). The most technological crops for the production of solid biofuels with the highest dry matter content (83–87%) in biomass that do not require drying are: perennial mallow, Weirich stagger bush and Lophanthus anisatus. And the least technological crops are Jerusalem artichoke and Silphium perfoliatum L. with a dry matter content of 52–60%.

An Assessment of the Effects of Applying Ash from the Thermal Disposal of Sewage Sludge for Fertilizing Energy Plants Using the Example of Giant Miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis giganteus)

The aim of the research was to determine the possibility of using ash from the thermal utilization of municipal sewage sludge as a fertilizer in the cultivation of giant miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis giganteus) for energy purposes. An attempt was also made to determine the optimal level of fertilization with ash from the thermal utilization of municipal sewage sludge in the commodity cultivation of miscanthus. It was assumed that the ash produced after thermal utilization of municipal sewage sludge could replace conventional mineral fertilizers. To prove the thesis, laboratory experiments of the miscanthus cultivation miscanthus were carried out. The results allowed to determine the optimal fertilization dose for miscanthus to be used in the next stage of the field research. Miscanthus does not pose a succession threat due to the method of reproduction in central Europe; therefore, its cultivation may remain under control. The research showed that for fertilization of miscanthus × giganteus crops, the ashes from thermal utilization of municipal sewage sludge could be used effectively. In experimental crops, it was shown that the optimal level of miscanthus fertilization in terms of yield was 8.32 g of ash per pot and 0.1 g of nitrogen per pot. As a result of laboratory tests, based on biometric features, the most favorable dose of ash and nitrogen fertilization from thermal utilization of municipal sewage sludge for use in field conditions was selected. The dose amounted to 3.7 t of ash∙ha−1 and 45 kg of nitrogen∙ha−1. In order to reduce the costs of cultivation, it was possible to abandon the use of nitrogen fertilizers since their omission did not cause a significant drop in yield. It is necessary to continue research in the field in order to confirm the correctness of the results obtained from laboratory tests.

Effect of Forecast Climate Changes on Water Needs of Giant Miscanthus Cultivated in the Kuyavia Region in Poland

Giant miscanthus is a vigorously growing energy plant, popularly used for biofuels production. It is a grass with low soil and water requirements, although its productivity largely depends on complementary irrigation, especially in the first year of cultivation. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the forecast climate changes, mainly air temperature increase, on the water needs of giant miscanthus during the growing season in 2021–2050 in the Kuyavia region (central Poland). The years 1981–2010 as the reference period were applied. The meteorological data was based on the regional climate change model RM5.1 with boundary conditions from the global ARPEGE model for the SRES A1B emission scenario. Crop evapotranspiration, calculated using the Penman-Monteith method and crop coefficients, was assumed as a measure of water needs. The study results showed that in view of the expected temperature changes, in the forecast period 2021–2050, the giant miscanthus water needs will increase by 10%. The highest monthly increase may occur in August (16%) and in September (23%). In the near future, the increase in water needs of giant miscanthus will necessitate the use of supplementary irrigation. Hence the results of this study may contribute to increasing the efficiency of water use, and thus to the rational management of irrigation treatments and plant energy resources in the Kuyavia region.

Phosphorus availability and leaching losses in annual and perennial cropping systems in an upper US Midwest landscape

Excessive phosphorus (P) applications to croplands can contribute to eutrophication of surface waters through surface runoff and subsurface (leaching) losses. We analyzed leaching losses of total dissolved P (TDP) from no-till corn, hybrid poplar (Populus nigra X P. maximowiczii), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), miscanthus (Miscanthus giganteus), native grasses, and restored prairie, all planted in 2008 on former cropland in Michigan, USA. All crops except corn (13 kg P ha−1 year−1) were grown without P fertilization. Biomass was harvested at the end of each growing season except for poplar. Soil water at 1.2 m depth was sampled weekly to biweekly for TDP determination during March–November 2009–2016 using tension lysimeters. Soil test P (0–25 cm depth) was measured every autumn. Soil water TDP concentrations were usually below levels where eutrophication of surface waters is frequently observed (> 0.02 mg L−1) but often higher than in deep groundwater or nearby streams and lakes. Rates of P leaching, estimated from measured concentrations and modeled drainage, did not differ statistically among cropping systems across years; 7-year cropping system means ranged from 0.035 to 0.072 kg P ha−1 year−1 with large interannual variation. Leached P was positively related to STP, which decreased over the 7 years in all systems. These results indicate that both P-fertilized and unfertilized cropping systems may leach legacy P from past cropland management.

Ionic liquid pretreatment of stinging nettle stems and giant miscanthus for bioethanol production

Production of ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass is considered the most promising proposition for developing a sustainable and carbon–neutral energy system. The use of renewable raw materials and variability of lignocellulosic feedstock generating hexose and pentose sugars also brings advantages of the most abundant, sustainable and non-food competitive biomass. Great attention is now paid to agricultural wastes and overgrowing plants as an alternative to fast-growing energetic crops. The presented study explores the use of stinging nettle stems, which have not been treated as a source of bioethanol. Apart from being considered a weed, stinging nettle is used in pharmacy or cosmetics, yet its stems are always a non-edible waste. Therefore, the aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of pretreatment using imidazolium- and ammonium-based ionic liquids, enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation of stinging nettle stems, and comparison of such a process with giant miscanthus. Raw and ionic liquid-pretreated feedstocks of stinging nettle and miscanthus were subjected to compositional analysis and scanning electron microscopy to determine the pretreatment effect. Next, the same conditions of enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation were applied to both crops to explore the stinging nettle stems potential in the area of bioethanol production. The study showed that the pretreatment of both stinging nettle and miscanthus with imidazolium acetates allowed for increased availability of the critical lignocellulosic fraction. The use of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate in the pretreatment of stinging nettle allowed to obtain very high ethanol concentrations of 7.3 g L−1, with 7.0 g L−1 achieved for miscanthus. Results similar for both plants were obtained for 1-ethyl-3-buthylimidazolium acetate. Moreover, in the case of ammonium ionic liquids, even though they have comparable potential to dissolve cellulose, it was impossible to depolymerize lignocellulose and extract lignin. Furthermore, they did not improve the efficiency of the hydrolysis process, which in turn led to low alcohol concentration. Overall, from the presented results, it can be assumed that the stinging nettle stems are a very promising bioenergy crop.

Перспективи вирощування міскантусу гігантського для покращення екосистемних послуг чорнозему опідзоленого важкосуглинкового

Goal. To study the prospects of cultivating giant miscanthus on degraded heavy loam chornozem to improve its ecosystem services. Methods. Field, laboratory-analytical, computational, mathematical-statistical. Results. The obtained results of research during 2016–2020 on the impact of growing Miscanthus giant on degraded heavy loam chornozem to improve the quality of its ecosystem services are presented. It was established that even in relatively arid conditions, plants of giant miscanthus produce significant amounts of biomass, without reducing soil productivity even without the application of fertilizers. In particular, for the 3rd year of cultivation in 2018 the yield of dry biomass of miscanthus was 14.3 t/ha, in 2019 — 18.6 t/ha, and in 2020 — 21.7 t/ha, which is equivalent to 16.9 tons of coal, or 7.4 tons of crude oil. Conclusions. Cultivation for 5 years on degraded heavy loam chornozem of miscanthus giant has improved its ecosystem services: supply, regulation, and ecosystem maintenance services. The expediency of growing energy crops of the second generation on agricultural soils is proved by the possibility of obtaining a significant amount of biomass, positive phytoremediation effect on the soil due to: leveling erosion, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, and sustainable improvement of the agro-ecological environment.

Evaluation of polyploid miscanthus lines usage efficiency as a feedstock for bioethanol production

Aim. Main aim of this research was the evaluation of theoretical bioethanol yield (per ha) from hexaploid giant miscanthus (Miscanthus х giganteus) and further comparison with conventional triploid form as well as with other bioethanol crops. Methods. Several mathematic functions were determined that describe yearly yield dynamics and equations, which were used in calculations of theoretical bioethanol yield. Results. The theoretical bioethanol yield was evaluated for different hexaploid miscanthus lines. The most productive in terms of ethanol yield were lines 108 and 202, from which potential bioethanol yield was found to be higher than in control line (6451 L/ha) by 10.7 % and 14.2% respectively and can reach 7144 L/ha and 7684 L/ha. Conclusions. It was determined that the most productive lines of polyploid miscanthus (lines 108 and 202) are able to compete with other plant cellulosic feedstocks for second-generation bioethanol production in Ukraine. However, these lines show bioethanol productivity than sweet sorghum, in the case when sweet sorghum is processed for obtainment of both first- and second-generation bioethanol.
 Keywords: bioenergy crops, biofuels, giant miscanthus, Miscanthus, polyploidy, second-generation bioethanol.

Study of Mechanical Properties of PHBHV/Miscanthus Green Composites Using Combined Experimental and Micromechanical Approaches.

In recent years the interest in the realization of green wood plastic composites (GWPC) materials has increased due to the necessity of reducing the proliferation of synthetic plastics. In this work, we study a specific class of GWPCs from its synthesis to the characterization of its mechanical properties. These properties are related to the underlying microstructure using both experimental and modeling approaches. Different contents of Miscanthus giganteus fibers, at 5, 10, 20, 30 weight percent’s, were thus combined to a microbial matrix, namely poly (3-hydroxybutyrate)-co-poly(3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBHV). The samples were manufactured by extrusion and injection molding processing. The obtained samples were then characterized by cyclic-tensile tests, pycnometer testing, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and microscopy. The possible effect of the fabrication process on the fibers size is also checked. In parallel, the measured properties of the biocomposite were also estimated using a Mori–Tanaka approach to derive the effective behavior of the composite. As expected, the addition of reinforcement to the polymer matrix results in composites with higher Young moduli on the one hand, and lower failure strains and tensile strengths on the other hand (tensile modulus was increased by 100% and tensile strength decreased by 23% when reinforced with 30 wt % of Miscanthus fibers).

CO2 adsorption on Miscanthus × giganteus (MG) chars prepared in different atmospheres

Low-cost solid sorbents with enhanced capacity and selectivity towards CO2 are crucial in the design of an efficient carbon capture process. The suitability of chars prepared by the slow pyrolysis of Miscanthus × giganteus (MG) in different atmospheres as CO2 adsorbents was explored. The adsorption performance of the MG chars was evaluated using a thermogravimetric analyser. The results showed that the CO2 uptakes at 30 °C were between 1.528 to 1.811 mmol g−1 for chars prepared in N2, between 0.208 to 1.746 mmol g−1 for chars prepared in CO2, and between 1.483 to 1.774 mmol g−1 for chars prepared in He, respectively. These values were in line with those from the literature on biomass-derived carbon-based materials. The cyclic adsorption/desorption regeneration experiments showed that 180 °C was the best temperature for CO2 desorption from the MG chars. The char prepared at 800 °C in nitrogen exhibited the best regeneration performance, i.e. losing 13.86 % of its adsorption capacity after seven adsorption/desorption cycles. These results suggested that the biomass waste used in this work could be successfully valorised as efficient CO2 adsorbents with excellent cyclic performance.

Вплив енергетичних культур на якість екосистемних послуг чорнозему опідзоленого важкосуглинкового

The article presents the results of research on the impact of energy crops on the quality of such ecosystem services of Luvic Chernic Phaozem as providing, regulating and supporting. The observation was conducted during 2019-2020 in the SE "Experimental Farm "Grakivske", Novyi Korotych village in Kharkiv region of Ukraine. Energy perennial crops grown in the experiment: Miscanthus giganteus (plantings 2016 (I) and 2019 (II) years); Sida hermophrodita (2018); Silphium perfoliatum L. (2018). Control variables: determination of soil organic carbon content; pH level; number of microarthropods in the soil; plant stem length. An increase in organic carbon content was found in the upper soil layers beneath energy crop plants, especially in the root zone of Sylphium. Due to the root excretions of the crops a slight decrease in pH is also observed in all the variants compared to the control. A positive effect of the plants is also observed on the numbers of soil invertebrates – microarthropods, namely columbines and oribatids. The increase in their numbers indicates the formation of favorable conditions for these living creatures, in the root zone of all energy crops. For example, in May 2019 compared to the control (2706 ex. / m2) under four-year-old Miscanthus almost tripled (6126 ex. / m2), under annual Miscanthus – 4860 ex. / m2, under Sylphium – 5040 ex. / m2, and under Sida – 4320 ex. / m2. Positive changes in soil structure under the influence of Miscanthus giganteus cultivation, especially in the upper layer, were also noted. The coefficient of structure on the variants increased from 1.39 on the control, to 2.26 in layer 0-20 under Miscanthus. Measurements of stem height, showed that all of the selected crops were able to function normally despite reduced rainfall and increased temperatures in recent years. The plants are not depressed under drought conditions and only increase their biomass over time. Thus, the results indicate an overall improvement in the quality of soil ecosystem services in energy crop plantations. In particular, provisioning services – obtaining energy raw materials; regulating services – improving soil quality; and ecosystem services – depositing organic carbon, are improved.

Process intensification of the ionoSolv pretreatment: effects of biomass loading, particle size and scale-up from 10\xa0mL to 1\xa0L

The ionoSolv process is one of the most promising technologies for biomass pretreatment in a biorefinery context. In order to evaluate the transition of the ionoSolv pretreatment of biomass from bench-scale experiments to commercial scale, there is a need to get better insight in process intensification. In this work, the effects of biomass loading, particle size, pulp washing protocols and 100-fold scale up for the pretreatment of the grassy biomass Miscanthus giganteus with the IL triethylammonium hydrogen sulfate, [TEA][HSO4], are presented as a necessary step in that direction. At the bench scale, increasing biomass loading from 10 to 50 wt% reduced glucose yields from 68 to 23% due to re-precipitation of lignin onto the pulp surface. Omitting the pulp air-drying step maintained saccharification yields at 66% at 50 wt% loading due to reduced fiber hornification. 100-fold scale-up (from 10 mL to 1 L) improved the efficacy of ionoSolv pretreatment and increasing loadings from 10 to 20 wt% reduced lignin reprecipitation and led to higher glucose yields due to the improved heat and mass transfer caused by efficient slurry mixing in the reactor. Pretreatment of particle sizes of 1–3 mm was more effective than fine powders (0.18–0.85 mm) giving higher glucose yields due to reduced surface area available for lignin re-precipitation while reducing grinding energy needs. Stirred ionoSolv pretreatment showed great potential for industrialization and further process intensification after optimization of the pretreatment conditions (temperature, residence time, stirring speed), particle size and biomass loading. Pulp washing protocols need further improvement to reduce the incidence of lignin precipitation and the water requirements of lignin washing.

Chlorophyll Fluorescence as a Criterion for the Diagnosis of Abiotic Environmental Stress of <i>Miscanthus x Giganteus</i> Hybrid

Chlorophyll Fluorescence as a Criterion for the Diagnosis of Abiotic Environmental Stress of <i>Miscanthus x Giganteus</i> Hybrid

Miscanthus Grass as a Novel Functional Fiber Source in Extruded Feline Diets

Although dietary fiber is not considered an essential nutrient in a complete and balanced diet for felines, it provides a substrate for fermentation by gut microbiota, thus promoting gastrointestinal health through the production of fermentative metabolites, as well as improving laxation. The aim of this research was to evaluate the novel fiber source, Miscanthus grass (Miscanthus giganteus), in comparison with traditional fiber sources and their effects on fecal quality, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), fecal fermentative end products, and microbiota of healthy adult cats. Four dietary treatments were evaluated, differing in dietary fiber source. The diets were formulated to meet or exceed the AAFCO (2018) nutritional profile for adult cats and contained either cellulose (CO), Miscanthus grass fiber (MF), a blend of Miscanthus fiber and tomato pomace (MF + TP), or beet pulp (BP). The study was conducted using a completely randomized design with 28 neutered adult, domesticated shorthair cats (19 females and 9 males, mean age 2.2 ± 0.03 years; mean body weight 4.6 ± 0.7 kg, mean body condition score 5.6 ± 0.6). The experimental period comprised 21 days, and a fresh fecal and a total fecal collection were performed during the last 4 days of the trial period. Daily food intake (DM basis) was similar across all groups (P > 0.05). Additionally, treatment did not affect fecal output (as-is or DM basis), fecal score, or fecal pH (P > 0.05). Cats fed BP had significantly higher total dietary fiber ATTD than all the other treatments (P < 0.05) and the highest concentrations of total short-chain fatty acid, acetate, and propionate (P < 0.05), while butyrate concentrations were similar for all treatments (P > 0.05). Inclusion of dietary fibers was effective in modulating gut microbiota. Cats fed diets containing Miscanthus grass had greater α-diversity than cats fed BP. As no adverse effects on health, fecal quality, or ATTD of macronutrients were observed with the inclusion of 9% Miscanthus grass fiber or fiber blend, the data suggest that Miscanthus grass fiber and fiber blends are viable alternatives to the traditional dietary fiber sources used in commercial extruded feline diets, being most comparable to cellulose.

EFFICIENCY OF GROWING ENERGY CROPS AND THEIR PROCESSING INTO BIOFUELS IN THE CONTEXT OF ENSURING ENERGY AUTONOMY OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES

The article substantiates that the lack of a single interpretation of the concept of «energy crops» leads to difficulties in approaches to state incentives for the development of their production. It is determined that domestic scientists understand energy crops as a rule, as crops, grown for the use exclusively for energy purposes (willow, poplar, miscanthus, switchgrass, etc.). The classification of bioenergy crops by such features as: growing cycle, type, characteristics and the final product obtained, origin is considered. It has been proved that growing of energy crops will have a positive effect for the economy (improving the state balance of payments, reducing energy costs, economic growth) and the environment (decarbonization, reducing emissions, land reclamation, etc.). The characteristics of energy crops in relation to growing conditions are given and a review of plant varieties for bioenergy use from the State Register of plant varieties suitable for distribution in Ukraine in 2021 is made. The peculiarities of the technology of growing giant miscanthus, energy willow and poplar are considered; economic calculations of efficiency of cultivation of miscanthus on one hectare are resulted. The experience in growing energy crops by the Yaltushkivka Research and Breeding Station, where miscanthus and energy willow plantations were laid in 2017 and the crops are used for self-sufficiency in energy resources, is analyzed. Options for growing and further use of energy crops as fuel, including the sale of energy crops and biofuels based on them, as well as use for energy autonomy (direct combustion or production of pellets / briquettes with their further use within the enterprise) is considered. The choice of the most economically viable option depends on the specific conditions of the agricultural enterprises.

Forecasting the Productivity of the Agrophytocenoses of the Miscanthus Giganteus for the Fertilization Based on the Wastewater Sedimentation Using Artificial Neural Networks

Forecasting the Productivity of the Agrophytocenoses of the Miscanthus Giganteus for the Fertilization Based on the Wastewater Sedimentation Using Artificial Neural Networks

Weed Management Practices to Improve Establishment of Selected Lignocellulosic Crops

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the dominant renewable energy resources suited for the production of sustainable biofuels and other energy purposes. This study was focused on weed management strategies that can improve the establishment of six lignocellulosic crops. The studied crops included: giant miscanthus, switchgrass, giant reed, cardoon, sweet sorghum, and kenaf. Delayed planting, increased planting densities, and mulching techniques can suppress weeds in giant miscanthus. Weed competition is detrimental for switchgrass establishment. Seedbed preparation and cultivar selection can determine its ability to compete with weeds. Giant reed is unlikely to get outcompeted by weeds, and any weed control operation is required only for the first growing season. Competitive cultivars and increased seeding rates maximize the competitiveness of cardoon against weeds. Several cultural practices can be used for non-chemical weed management in sweet sorghum and kenaf. For all crops, pre-emergence herbicides can be applied. The available safe post-emergence herbicides are limited. Mechanical weed control during crucial growth stages can provide solutions for sweet sorghum, kenaf, and perennial grasses. Further research is required to develop effective weed management strategies, with emphasis on cultural practices, that can improve the establishment of these prominent lignocellulosic crops.

Growing giant miscanthus in Polissya on radioactively contaminated soils

Purpose. Investigate the accumulation of 137Cs and 90Sr radionuclides in the biomass of giant miscanthus depending on the agronomic methods of growing it on radioactively contaminated soils in Polissia.&#x0D; Method. Biomorphological, radiometric, lysometric, statistical, comparative and computational.&#x0D; Results. The article presents the results of research to study the accumulation of radionuclides 137Cs and 90Sr in the biomass of giant miscanthus. It was found that in the variants where the bioenergy crop was grown on soils contaminated with radionuclides, the accumulation of 137Cs in the biomass in the range of 14.7–18.6 Bq/kg and 90Sr — 0.46–0.54 Bq/kg was observed. The use of mineral fertilizers together with liming and inoculation with giant miscanthus with the microbial preparation Polymyxobacterin and treatment with organo-mineral fertilizer BioMAG helped to reduce the accumulation of radionuclides in the biomass of giant miscanthus as following: 90Sr — by 15% and 137Cs by 21%. It was investigated that the use of these agronomic techniques contributed to the formation of dry biomass yield at the level of 9.96 t/ha on average over three years of cultivation, which is 28% higher than the control.&#x0D; Conclusion. It is established that the use of mineral fertilization in combination with liming, inoculation of rhizomes of giant miscanthus with the microbial drug Polymyxobacterin and pre-planting treatment with organo-mineral fertilizer BioMAG contributes to a significant increase in dry biomass yield with reducing 90Sr and 137Cs. The accumulation of these radioactive isotopes in the biomass of giant miscanthus when grown on radionuclide-contaminated soils did not exceed the permissible level for cereal grains, and the use of agronomic techniques helped to reduce the content of 90Sr by 9–15% and 137Cs by 12–21% compared to control. The lowest coefficients of radionuclide conversion into biomass of giant miscanthus were obtained for both 90Sr (0.15) and 137Cs (0.24) for the use of mineral fertilizers together with liming and inoculation of giant mismanthus rizomes with Polymyxobacterin and treatment with BioMAG organo-mineral fertilizer.

Water use and biomass yield of bioenergy crops in the North Carolina Piedmont

AbstractCrops grown for bioenergy purposes are a potential alternative to traditional row crops and pasture–hay systems in the North Carolina (NC) Piedmont, but there is limited information available about their biomass yields and water requirements in this region. The goal of this study was to evaluate biomass yield and water‐use efficiency of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), giant miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus Greef et Deu.), biomass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor spp.), silage corn (Zea mays L.) and tall fescue (Lolium arundinacea Schreb.). The perennial systems were established in 2012 while annuals were planted each spring. Crop water use was evaluated for the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons using a water balance approach. Giant miscanthus had the highest 2‐yr average biomass yield (29.1 ± 0.8 Mg ha–1) followed by corn (23.6 ± 0.6 Mg ha–1) and biomass sorghum (22.0 ± 1.8 Mg ha–1). Switchgrass and tall fescue had the lowest biomass yields, 14.2 ± 1.9 and 12.5 ± 1.2 Mg ha–1, respectively. Fescue had the highest season‐long water use in both years of the study. Perennial grasses giant miscanthus and switchgrass had similar seasonal water use, but giant miscanthus had higher water‐use efficiency due to greater biomass yields. The annual crops corn and sorghum used less water than the perennial systems because of their shorter growing season, and, consequently, had higher water‐use efficiencies. This information can aid growers when making management decisions about converting land into bioenergy crops.