Plantain Peel Research Articles

Enhancing Wound Healing with Nanohydrogel-Entrapped Plant Extracts and Nanosilver: An In Vitro Investigation

Wound healing is a complex process that can be improved through advanced biomedical approaches. Incorporating nanopolymers and plant extracts into wound dressings offers a favorable strategy for promoting tissue repair. Nanopolymers provide a controlled environment for sustained drug release while also protecting the wound from external contaminants. When combined with bioactive compounds from plant extracts, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, this hybrid approach can accelerate healing, reduce infection, and improve tissue regeneration. Hence, in this study, we have synthesized alginate/gelatin hydrogel blended with only nanosilver (Alg/gel-Ag) and with nanosilver and plant extracts like aloe vera, curcumin, plantain peel extract, and Calendula flower petal extract (Alg/gel-AgP). The synthesized hydrogels were characterized using different photophysical tools, and the cytotoxicity effect was studied using a fibroblast cell line (V79). The antibacterial effect of the hydrogels was also observed against E. coli and S. aureus, determining the MIC and MBC. The wound healing in vitro was also assessed using scratch assay which depicted a rapid wound closure for Alg/gel-AgP compared to the untreated control and Alg/gel-Ag. The combined effect between nanotechnology and natural extracts represents a novel and effective approach for enhancing the wound healing process.

Influence of synthesis parameters on the optical properties of carbon dots

Photoluminescent carbon dots were synthesized by hydrothermal treatment from agricultural waste. Considering that the composition of the dots’ surface depends on the precursor source and that this composition influences the optical properties, this study focused on analyzing the effect of synthesis parameters on the formation of functional groups, on the core structure, on the morphology, and their influence on the absorption, excitation, emission, and quantum performance properties. It was obtained that by increasing the synthesis temperature, functional groups C = O, C = N, and CO were formed in the carbon dots obtained from the three precursors, and an additional group C = C in dots obtained from plantain peels, which are the only one that showed a degradation of the cellulose band. The absorption response indicated the formation of graphitic nuclei with oxygenated groups responsible for the red shift of the absorption maximum moving from 266 to 283 nm. The Raman response indicates that there are graphitic domains in the nucleus, where the defects band has a high intensity for the three precursors. The higher quantum yield value presented by the plantain dots is due to the surface, not the graphitic core. The spherical shape and size of around 2 nm were observed by TEM.

Effect of plantain peel ash as an admixture on concrete properties

This study investigates the effect of plantain peel ash as an admixture on concrete properties, which is a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete production. The aim is to optimize the mix design of concrete required for improved performance, investigate the effect of the plantain peel ash on the compressive strength of the concrete, and examine the effects of plantain peel ash as a supplementary material on the durability and service life of concrete. The use of plantain peel ash as an admixture for cement in concrete has gained increasing popularity due to its ability to reduce the environmental impact of concrete production. This study contributes to the understanding of the durability and performance of plantain peel ash in concrete which is crucial for sustainable construction practices. The methodology involves mix design according to IS 10262:2009 for M15 grade of concrete with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% plantain peel ash replacement, testing of compressive strength and durability of the concrete samples and also the optimal dosage required, in comparison with conventional concrete. The result of this study shows that the addition of 5% plantain peel ash increases the compressive strength of the concrete with obtained value of 27.30 N/mm2 and also has the standard workability for a normal concrete at 45 mm for the control and 60 mm for 5% PPA. The 10%, 15% and 20% shows a decrease in their compressive strength compared to the control mix (0%) with a value of 18.42 N/mm2 for 28 days curing. Overall, it can be said that 5% plantain peel ash has provided a strong basis for the use of plantain peel ash in concrete mixtures. The 5% is equivalent to 0.72 kg PPA.

Determination of proximate analysis of individual and combined samples of <i>Dioscorea alata</i>, <i>Musa parasidiaca</i> and <i>Xanthosoma sagittifolium</i> peels

This study investigates the proximate composition of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) plant wastes, with a focus on evaluating the impact of the individual and combined plant wastes. Tubers of yam (Dioscorea alata), cocoyam (Musa parasidiaca) and plantain (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) used in this study were obtained from Obibi in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Yams are tubers, plantains are fruits, whereas cocoyam is derived from corms, underground stems, and swollen hypocotyls. All these crops can be propagated by vegetative parts and these include tubers (yams), sucker (Plantain) and side shoots, stolons, or corm heads (cocoyam). Peels from the yam tubers were obtained by using a kitchen knife to carefully remove the peels. The peels were then immediately oven dried at 45oC for 24 hours. The dried peels were then ground through a 40-mesh screen using a Wiley. Analyses conducted isproximate determination using AOAC method. The results highlight the high ash content of Yam and Cocoyam Peel, which contributes to mineral enrichment; the enhanced moisture content of Plantain Peel, which has implications for water retention; and the low fat and oil content of Cocoyam Peel, which suggests that it is appropriate for use as a low-fat organic material. Yam Peel has a high crude fiber level, which indicates that it has the capacity to improve the structure of the soil. On the other hand, Yam and Cocoyam Peel stand out because it has largest protein content, which is essential for the development of plants. Plantain and cocoyam peel have the largest carbohydrate content, making it an excellent source of energy for the bacteria and plants that live in the soil below it. These findings have practical implications for sustainable agriculture by optimizing crop yields in diverse agro ecosystems.

Characterization of fresh biowastes for biogas production and environmental health in Niger Delta, Nigeria

BackgroundEnvironmental pollution is a public health problem in Niger Delta, Nigeria. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to: identify the major fresh biowastes in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta; quantify the biogas yields from mono-digestion and co-digestion of identified biowastes; determine the first day of biogas production during hydraulic retention time; assess pH variations during anaerobic digestion; and evaluate biogas flame colours.MethodsFifteen communities in Bayelsa State were randomly selected, and on-the-spot assessment and quantification of the biowastes found in each community were carried out daily per week. Mono-digestion of 20 kg of each biowaste and co-digestion of 10 kg of animal waste with 10 kg of plant waste were carried out respectively under anaerobic conditions. Cumulative biogas yield and pH were measured using a pH meter and weighing scale respectively. Biogas flame colours during combustion were visually assessed.ResultsExactly 120.61 metric ton of fresh biowastes was found to be generated per week in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. Industrial biowastes were the highest [47.6 tonnes, (39.46%)], followed by abattoir biowastes [33 tonnes (27%)], market and roadside sellers biowastes [25.5 tonnes (21.14%)], and farm biowastes [14.51 (12.03%)]. Biogas yields (kg) were: 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 17, 14, 2, 18, 16, 17, 15 and 1 kg for palm oil mill effluent (POME), orange fruit waste (OFW), pineapple peels (PP), plantain peels, cassava mill effluent (CME), rumen digesta (RD), cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-rumen digesta, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage respectively. The first day of biogas production for RD, cow dung, sewage, PP-RD, plantain peels-cow dung, POME-RD, OFW-cow dung, and CME-sewage was on the 6th, 32nd. 56th, 1st, 26th, 18th, 25th, and 60th day of hydraulic retention time respectively. A dominant blue flame colour mixed reddish yellow or orange flames were found during biogas combustion. A slight increase in pH was found in all the biodigester media.ConclusionsIn the present study, a variety of biowastes yielding various quantities and qualities of biogas were identified in Bayelsa State, Niger Delta. The study’s findings have provided evidence-based data that might be explored as a road map and catalyst for policy creation against inadequate biowaste management and as sustainable alternatives to the expensive liquefied petroleum gas. The potential of current research study to be scaled up for commercial use is implicated in the present study.

Study of multifaceted eco-friendly nanoparticle zinc coating incorporation on mild steel.

Mild steel's versatile application in various fields makes it a pivotal material, yet its vulnerability to corrosion demands effective protection methods. This work explores the potential synergy between plantain peel (PP) and snail shell particle (SSP) nanoparticles when combined in a Zn–MgO matrix to improve corrosion resistance in mild steel coatings. After a thorough investigation of various bath compositions and process conditions, the ZnO–MgO–20SSP–20PP coating was found to have improved electrical characteristics, decreased thickness with high-quality films, higher hardness (78 HRB), and excellent corrosion resistance. Corrosion tests showed a notable decrease (∼70% for the ZnO–MgO–20SSP–20PP sample) in the rate of corrosion, and optical micrographs confirmed the coating's capacity to reduce damage. A reliable predictive model (ANOVA) was produced by mathematical optimization utilising a central composite design, which highlighted the interplay of SSP and PP concentrations on corrosion rate. This extensive study provides eco-friendly alternatives for improved mild steel corrosion prevention by showcasing the diverse contributions of SSP and PP nanoparticles.

Synthesis of plantain peel powder-based biofilm

The present study investigated the use of ripe plantain peel powder, crude glycerol, vinegar, egg shell powder and cassava starch as source raw materials for producing plantain peel-based biodegradable biofilm (P-BF). The synthesized biofilm was characterized by chemical test (FTIR, GC-MS, morphology test, water absorption property, biodegradation test, solubility test and swelling test) and mechanical test (ultimate tensile test, flexural, hardness test, % elongation and thermogravimetric analysis). Results showed successful production of P-BF. A non-plantain bioplastic (NP-BF) served as control. The FTIR analysis showed eight functional groups; ether, ethene, amine, carboxylic acid, nitriles, methylene, cyclic ester, primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols common to hydrocarbons. The biodegradation test showed the P-BF degraded at the same pace as NP-BF which degraded on the 6th day of the test. The mechanical test showed P-BF had higher thermal stability and water absorption property compared to the NP-BF. However, P-BF showed lower ultimate tensile test, flexural, hardness test, percentage elongation compared to the NP-BF. Morphology test showed that there was uneven distribution of constituents materials in P-BF compared to the NP-BF which affected its mechanical properties. In conclusion, the study successfully produced plantain peel-based biodegradable biofilm with good mechanical properties, biodegradability, thermal stability, fair water absorption property.

FTIR and GC-MS analyses of raw materials produced from food wastes used in synthesis of biofilms

The present study carried out the GC-MS and FTIR analyses of raw materials (ripe plantain peel powder, cassava starch, glycerol, acetic acid (vinegar) and eggshell powder) produced from food wastes that are used in production of biofilm. The GC-MS results revealed the presence of pentadecane, bis (2-methylpropyl) ester and benzoic acid, 3-(2-Hydroxy-6-methylphenyl)-4(3H)-quinazolinone). The FTIR analysis revealed 17 peaks for glycerol, 16 peaks for vinegar, 15 peaks for cassava starch, 16 peaks for eggshell; representing the functional groups of ether, ethene, amine, carboxylic acid, nitriles, methylene cyclic ester, primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols common to hydrocarbons. The presence of carboxylic acid was important for enhancing the mechanical and chemical properties of biofilms thereby making them viable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics. Amines contributed to the flexibility, strength, and thermal degradation resistance of biofilms, thus aiding in their biodegradability. In conclusion, the study showed that the raw materials possessed biological activities and their functional groups indicated that the raw materials are safe to humans and the environment.

Evaluation of scarless wound healing through nanohydrogel infused with selected plant extracts

In this study, a CMC-based hydrogel nanocomposite was prepared and loaded with bioactive components along with silver nanoparticles. For aesthetic reasons, an alternative was found that can result in scar-free wound healing. To accelerate scar-free wound healing, bioactive phytoproducts such as aloe vera, curcumin, and peel of plantain were blended along with the nanocomposite hydrogel that contained silver nanoparticles (CMC + Ag + P). The prepared hydrogels proved to have good antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive (S.aureus) and Gram-negative (E.coli) non-pathogenic bacteria. The prepared hydrogel had an excellent wound-healing ability which was studied using in vitro scratch assay against A375 cell line. The biocompatibility of the hydrogels was proved using an MTT assay. The scar free wound healing was established in Wistar rat model where burn wounds were healed using CMC + Ag + P. The wound healed were compared with only silver (CMC + Ag) and saline treated animals and the histopathological studies, VEGF and PDGF analysis confirmed that the wound healing was scar free after CMC + Ag + P treatment. We could conclude that the presence of plantain peel extract which is a source of ascorbic acid and is rich in vitamin C can aid in scar-free wound healing.

Influence of air staging variation on agglomeration behavior of biomass fuels in fluidized bed technology

The fluidized bed system is an effective approach widely accepted and commonly used for the thermochemical conversion of solid fuel such as biomass and agricultural residue. In most instances, there are some demerits usually associated with this approach such as development of eutectic mass, increased process of melting and bed agglomeration. This work was carried out to study the behavior of five readily available biomass fuels (Palm tree fronds, corn straw, plantain peels, sugarcane bagasse and domestic woods) in a bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) combustor. Characterization of the bed materials and ash samples were done using SEM-EDX, XRF and XRD. The effect of physical factors on the composition of obtained ash and particles from the bed was assessed. Also, the interaction between the fuel ash and bed particle was evaluated to reveal its influence on bed materials morphology. The results obtained revealed a combustion efficiency that varies between 96.2 to 99.6 % with the highest value obtained for sugarcane bagasse. The corn straw has the highest Potassium (K) content, while the domestic wood ash contained the highest Calcium (Ca) content. The XRF analysis revealed the conversion of the major potassium content of the corn straw to K2O. Meanwhile, bed agglomeration was absent when combustion was carried out with no staging-air as well as with staging air, despite high temperature above 800 oC used. Data obtained from this work revealed that agglomeration effect will be minimal issue when carrying out fluidized bed combustion of the selected biomass.

Effects of Agro-based Adsorbents on the Biochemical Profiles of Wistar Rats Exposed to Cyanide

Background: Cyanide is a very toxic chemical that reacts with the ferric cytochrome oxidase in the mitochondrial system to form a stable complex. This complex inhibits the process of oxidative phosphorylation, thereby interrupting aerobic respiration in the organism. It is postulated that activated charcoal (AC) intercepts the ingested cyanide in the gastrointestinal tract before it is absorbed into the system. Methods: A single dose of 3 mg/kg body weight of potassium cyanide (KCN) was orally administered to the rats in each of the five groups, each consisting of 6 rats. After 15 minutes, all rats in each group were given AC from different agro-based materials. The control group (group 1) received standard commercial AC orally at 1 g/kg. group 2 received AC from plantain peels, group 3 received AC from castor oil seed shell, group 4 received AC from coconut shell and group 5 received a combination of AC from plantain peels, castor oil seed shell, and coconut shell. Blood samples were collected sequentially from rats in each group for biochemical assays using standard procedures. Results: The control group, which received KCN and standard commercial AC, exhibited the highest alanine transaminase (ALT) value (60.09±0.10 U/L) on day seven. Similarly, the highest aspartate transaminase (AST) value (196.28±0.72 U/L) was observed in the control group. Alkaline phosphate (ALP) levels followed a similar pattern. On day seven, the serum creatinine levels were 3.81±0.11 mg/dL for group 1 and 3.45±0.05 mg/dL for group 5. Subsequently, all biochemical parameters decreased after day 7, with the lowest levels recorded in rats that received AC derived from coconut shells. Conclusion: The administration of locally prepared agro-based adsorbents to Wistar rats after exposure to sublethal doses of cyanide significantly mitigated the effects of the cyanide on the liver, kidneys, and heart, as indicated by the biochemical parameters of the albino Wistar rats in the study.

Removal of hexachlorocyclohexane isomers from wastewater using activated carbon from Musa paradisiaca peel: Adsorption isotherms, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies

The potential usage of activated carbon from plantain peel (Musa paradisiaca) (TPPC) and unactivated carbon from plantain peel (UPPC) for the removal of Hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) from water systems was investigated. The TPPC and UPPC were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Adsorption experiments were conducted as a function of adsorbent weight (2 – 10 g), temperature (30 -50 °C), and solution pH (2 - 9) under an adsorbent packed column. The Optimum removal efficiency of 98.23 % was achieved in the column studies under the following conditions: pH = 5, the dosage of adsorbent = 5 g/100 mL, temperature = 30 °C. The batch adsorption process was employed to evaluate the kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics of the adsorption processes. The equilibrium study showed that Langmuir among other isotherm models applied performed better in fitting the data. Additionally, the kinetic data was best described by the pseudo-second-order model (R2 > 0.97), indicating a chemisorption mechanism. Furthermore, the thermodynamic calculations of the adsorption process suggest that HCH adsorption was exothermic (ΔH = -110.87) and spontaneous (-ΔG).

Experimental Determination of Mechanical Properties and Characterization of Selected Crop Residues

The management of huge waste generated from crop harvesting and processing has continued to create challenges and constitute an environmental nuisance. Inappropriate disposal and open-air burning of crop residues exacerbate environmental pollution, escalate bush burning and deforestation, and impact human health. Mixing, processing, and conversion of crop residues to form useful composites for various applications remain one of the economical, eco-friendly, and sustainable strategies for its management. The study constructed composites by mixing different ratios of unripe plantain peel (UPP) and coconut fibre (CCF) with an appropriate binder and hardener. The fabricated composites were subjected to mechanical, compositional, and morphological analyses. The outcomes of the tests show that the hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength only UPP is 97.8 RHN, 411 MPa, and 9 818 J/m2, respectively while the CCF/UPP composite is 98.5 RHN, 538 MPa, and 12 273 J/m2, respectively. The wear rate of UPP is 0.56 cm3/m while that of the CFF/UPP composite is as high as 0.73 cm3/m and increases with increased load. Silicon, oxygen, and aluminium are the major constituents of the composite samples as revealed by the compositional analysis. The tensile strength, hardness, impact, and wear rate of UPP can be boosted by the blending of CFF to form homogenous composites. The outcome of this study will deepen the literature and escalate research into the conversion and utilization of crop residues for diverse applications. The usage of innovative technologies and energy-efficient techniques should be adopted for the processing, modification, and conversion of crop residues.

Chemical and structural evolution of green dispersive Musa paradisiaca composite potential on solid crystal AlMg25PP formation for advance application

This study examines the utilization of plantain peels (Musa paradisiaca) as a strengthening component in aluminum metal matrix composites (AMMCs) for the purpose of cost reduction and the utilization of eco-friendly materials. The composites were manufactured using the stir casting method, with varying plantain peel contents ranging from 0 % to 25 %. Mechanical assessment revealed a notable increase of more than 80 % in microhardness as the plantain peel content increased, which was attributed to enhanced interfacial bonding and effective dispersion of reinforcements. The maximum recorded hardness was 40 HRB for the composite containing 25 % plantain peels. Electrochemical examinations indicated a reduction in corrosion rate, with the lowest rate observed at 6.80 mm/year for the composite with 25 % plantain peel, underscoring the inhibitive impact of the plantain peels. Variations in electrical resistivity and conductivity were observed due to the non-uniform distribution of plantain peels, with resistivity values ranging from 5.06 Ωm to 5.13 Ωm and conductivity ranging between 0.1950 (Ωm)−1 and 0.1975 (Ωm)−1. Analysis of the microstructure using SEM/EDS and XRD techniques confirmed the successful integration of plantain peels into the matrix, revealing distinct diffraction patterns and the formation of intermetallic phases such as Al(ZnSn2), Al(Mn,Fe)Cu, and Al(Mn,Fe2O3). The results indicate that plantain peels present a feasible and sustainable option for reinforcing AMMCs, thereby improving their mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.

Effect of Pretreating Cattle Dung with Granulated Plantain Peel on Biogas Production

Effect of Pretreating Cattle Dung with Granulated Plantain Peel on Biogas Production

Electrochemistry and inhibitory evaluation of Musa paradisiaca particulates on AA6063 alloy for improved service life

Recent study has concentrated on the corrosion-inhibiting properties of numerous local plants and agrowaste particulates. This research investigates the corrosion inhibition properties of plantain peel particulates (PP) on AA6063 aluminum alloy in 1 M HCl environments. Through electrochemical analysis, adsorption examination, mathematical optimization and surface morphology examination, PP's efficacy as an inhibitor was assessed. Results indicate a reduction in corrosion rate from 31.2195 mm/year (control) to 10.678 mm/yr(year) (0.6 g PP). Adsorption isotherm studies reveal favorable adsorption characteristics, with Langmuir and Freundlich models showing high regression coefficients. The Gibbs free energy of adsorption (−18.3669 kJ/mol) suggests chemical adsorption. Empirical optimization using Design of Experiment (DOE) and ANOVA indicates optimal inhibition at 33 °C with 0.229 g PP concentration.

Characterization and Implementation of Cocoa Pod Husk as a Reinforcing Agent to Obtain Thermoplastic Starches and Bio-Based Composite Materials.

When the cocoa pod husk (CPH) is used and processed, two types of flour were obtained and can be differentiated by particle size, fine flour (FFCH), and coarse flour (CFCH) and can be used as a possible reinforcement for the development of bio-based composite materials. Each flour was obtained from chopping, drying by forced convection, milling by blades, and sieving using the 100 mesh/bottom according to the Tyler series. Their physicochemical, thermal, and structural characterization made it possible to identify the lower presence of lignin and higher proportions of cellulose and pectin in FFCH. Based on the properties identified in FFCH, it was included in the processing of thermoplastic starch (TPS) from the plantain pulp (Musa paradisiaca) and its respective bio-based composite material using plantain peel short fiber (PPSF) as a reinforcing agent using the following sequence of processing techniques: extrusion, internal mixing, and compression molding. The influence of FFCH contributed to the increase in ultimate tensile strength (7.59 MPa) and higher matrix-reinforcement interaction when obtaining the freshly processed composite material (day 0) when compared to the bio-based composite material with higher FCP content (30%) in the absence of FFCH. As for the disadvantages of FFCH, reduced thermal stability (323.57 to 300.47 °C) and losses in ultimate tensile strength (0.73 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (142.53 to 26.17 MPa) during storage progress were identified. In the case of TPS, the strengthening action of FFCH was not evident. Finally, the use of CFCH was not considered for the elaboration of the bio-based composite material because it reached a higher lignin content than FFCH, which was expected to decrease its affinity with the TPS matrix, resulting in lower mechanical properties in the material.

Zinc oxide decorated plantain peel activated carbon for adsorption of cationic malachite green dye: Mechanistic, kinetics and thermodynamics modeling

Reports have shown that malachite green (MG) dye causes various hormonal disruptions and health hazards, hence, its removal from water has become a top priority. In this work, zinc oxide decorated plantain peels activated carbon (ZnO@PPAC) was developed via a hydrothermal approach. Physicochemical characterization of the ZnO@PPAC nanocomposite with a 205.2 m2/g surface area, porosity of 614.68 and dominance of acidic sites from Boehm study established the potency of ZnO@PPAC. Spectroscopic characterization of ZnO@PPAC vis-a-viz thermal gravimetric analyses (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Powdered X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy and High Resolution – Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) depict the thermal stability via phase transition, functional group, crystallinity with interspatial spacing, morphology and spherical and nano-rod-like shape of the ZnO@PPAC heterostructure with electron mapping respectively. Adsorption of malachite green dye onto ZnO@PPAC nanocomposite was influenced by different operational parameters. Equilibrium data across the three temperatures (303, 313, and 323 K) were most favorably described by Freundlich indicating the ZnO@PPAC heterogeneous nature. 77.517 mg/g monolayer capacity of ZnO@PPAC was superior to other adsorbents compared. Pore-diffusion predominated in the mechanism and kinetic data best fit the pseudo-second-order. Thermodynamics studies showed the feasible, endothermic, and spontaneous nature of the sequestration. The ZnO@PPAC was therefore shown to be a sustainable and efficient material for MG dye uptake and hereby endorsed for the treatment of industrial effluent.

Bioenergy and Biorefinery Potential of Residues: A Representative Case of the Sucre Region in Colombia

AbstractAgricultural and agroindustrial residues are produced worldwide but these residues do not have a specific use. Then, a high potential to produce bioenergy and value-added products has been wasted. Biomass conversion routes should be proposed based on regional needs, making different upgrading processes more reliable and feasible. Thus, bioenergy applications should be analyzed as potential solutions before analyzing prospective products based on the biomass chemical composition. The objective of this research is to provide an approach for defining potential energy-driven applications of lignocellulosic biomass in developing countries with high availability of biomass sources as a result of the agricultural vocation of a region/country. As a case study, this paper shows the Sucre region in Colombia. A methodological approach to define thermochemical, anaerobic digestion, and biorefining upgrading pathways is provided based on chemical characterization, proximate analysis, fuel properties, and biogas production potential. Corn cobs, rice husk, cassava stem, and subverified cassava stem were the most suitable feedstocks for thermochemical upgrading. Avocado seeds, peels, and cassava leaves were selected as the most suitable raw materials for biogas production. Finally, plantain peel, rachis, and organic food waste were selected as potential and prospective raw materials in biorefinery systems to produce high-value-added products. Graphical Abstract

Production of Biogas from Plantain Peels, Using Cow Dung as Substrate

Production of Biogas from Plantain Peels, Using Cow Dung as Substrate