Browsing by Author "Kabenge, Isa"

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    Banana plant wastes for biofuels: indicators from characterization for thermochemical conversion
    (Taylor & Francis, 2026-03-19) Menya, Emmanuel; Wakatuntu, Joel; Turyasingura, Medard; Okot, Christopher; Storz, Henning; Kabenge, Isa; Kizito, Simon Savio; Komakech, Allan John; Olupot, Peter Wilberforce; Okello, Collins
    The banana value chain in Uganda generates a wide range of waste biomass, yet its suitability for thermochemical conversion remains largely unstudied. This study aimed to characterise banana rhizome, pseudostem, peduncle and inflorescences from Mbwazirume and Mpologoma cultivars in Uganda for potential use in thermochemical conversion processes. These wastes were characterised for lignocellulosic, proximate, elemental, and mineral composition, and higher heating value (HHV). Moisture content ranged from 9 to 14wt%, volatile matter 74-82%db, fixed carbon 12–17%db, and ash content 3-13%db. Inflorescences exhibited the highest lignin content (15.23–17.23%daf) and HHV (14.55–15.85 MJkg−1) across cultivars, suggesting higher suitability for biochar production compared to its counterparts. However, inflorescencesexhibited the highest nitrogen content (2.47–2.56%daf), suggesting higher NOx emissions potential. Inflorescences, rhizomes and peduncle exhibited higher ash content (6–13%db) than pseudostem (3.35–3.85%db), suggesting increased risk of slagging and fouling of heat transfer surfaces. Predominant mineral elements were found to be K (15888–28363 ppm), Ca (2000–9000 ppm), Si (2000–9000 ppm), and Mg (1120–4928 ppm), which can have catalytic functions during thermal decomposition. The low fuel ratio (0.16–0.22) of the wastes suggested poor fuel properties. These properties could be enhanced through torrefaction, making the wastes more suitable as sustainable feedstocks for biofuel production.