Characterization and valorization of biomass ashes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Farming in India generates substantial agricultural waste (agrowaste) post-harvest.
• Biomass ashes (BMAs) are often discarded but possess beneficial properties.
• Characterization of BMAs is crucial for their effective utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize eight different Indian biomass ashes (BMAs).
• To investigate their chemical and physical properties for potential applications.
• To propose utilization strategies based on BMA composition.

Main Methods:

• Surface chemical composition analysis, proximate analysis, and ultimate analysis.
• Determination of physical properties: porosity, density, point of zero charge, surface area (BET), water absorption, surface pH, and charge.
• Characterization using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR).

Main Results:

• BMAs exhibited surface areas ranging from 1.9 to 46 m²/g.
• The point of zero charge exceeded 9.8 for all samples, indicating alkaline nature.
• BMAs were categorized into four types (S, C, K, CK) based on chemical composition.

Conclusions:

• BMAs possess diverse properties suitable for various applications.
• Proposed utilization includes agriculture, construction, glass, rubber, zeolite manufacturing, and adsorption.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and explore opportunities in BMA utilization.