Integrated assessment of energy potential and operational risks of rice and sugarcane residues via thermochemical characterization and biomass quality indices

Assureira E.; Assureira M. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.1939

Resumen

Residual biomass generated during the harvesting and processing stages in the rice and sugar industries represents an attractive and sustainable alternative for energy production, due to its high availability (2260 Mt annually), low cost, and non-competition with food security. However, the variability of its physical and thermochemical properties requires a comprehensive evaluation for its effective utilization. In this study, the energy potential and operational risks in the thermochemical conversion of sugarcane bagasse and leaves (SCB, SCS), and rice straw and husk (RS, RH), were evaluated and compared. These factors were integrated using a global Biomass Quality Index (BQI) based on 8 parameters, alongside combustion and ash-related indicators. The results identified SCB as the most favorable alternative, presenting the lowest BQI (2,82), followed by RH with an index of 5,43. This performance is attributed to a balanced compositional profile, characterized by suitable energy parameters and low penalties for operational issues linked to ash composition (lower presence of Na and K) and low concentrations of N, S, and Cl in the biomass. In contrast, RS and SCS showed high BQI values of 17,36 and 16,40, respectively. The integrated assessment of energy potential and operational risks, combined with pre-treatment strategies, would optimize the efficient, safe, and sustainable energy utilization of these residues.

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú