Thermochemical and physical characterization of agricultural biomass for sustainable energy in Bangladesh
Mohammad Kamruzzaman, Debu Kumar Bhattacharjya, Edris Alam, Md. Rezwanul Karim, Bidhan Nath, Khawla Saeed Al Hattawi, Md Kamrul Islam
Abstract
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) prioritize affordable, clean energy solutions to tackle global issues like poverty, climate change, and environmental degradation. In Bangladesh, agricultural biomass residues present a renewable and underutilized alternative to fossil fuels. This study systematically characterizes the thermochemical and physical properties of key agricultural residues—rice husk, rice straw, wheat straw, sugarcane bagasse, jute stick, dhaincha, and water hyacinth—to assess their potential for sustainable energy production. Key analyses include higher heating value (HHV), proximate composition (volatile matter, fixed carbon, ash), and elemental makeup. Volatile matter content ranged from 71.52 % in rice husk to 90.83 % in sugarcane bagasse, while fixed carbon varied between 7.00 % in sugarcane bagasse and 16.45 % in dhaincha. Ash content was highest in rice straw (15.05 %) and lowest in sugarcane bagasse (2.17 %). The HHV ranged from 19.65 MJ/kg for dahincha to 11.95 MJ/kg for water hyacinth, highlighting dahincha’s high energy potential. However, elevated potassium in rice straw (1.62 %) and water hyacinth (2.84 %) suggests risks of slagging in thermal conversion systems. These findings underscore the value of region-specific biomass data in informing energy policy and advancing renewable energy initiatives. By identifying high-potential feedstocks and conversion needs, this study supports targeted biomass applications, contributing to cleaner energy solutions and reduced dependency on fossil fuels. Advanced conversion technologies and ash management strategies are recommended to optimize the energy efficiency of these residues, particularly in regions with abundant agricultural waste. The insights provided serve as a foundation for sustainable biomass utilization in Bangladesh, with potential replicability in other agrarian countries facing similar energy and environmental challenges.