Growing Functionality of Agricultural Raw Materials: Corn Cob, Wheat Straw, Rice Husk, and Bagasse

The functionality of agricultural raw materials such as corn cobs, wheat straw, rice husks, and bagasse is expanding significantly. These materials, once considered agricultural waste, are now being recognized for their potential in various innovative applications. This shift is driven by the growing emphasis on sustainability, resource efficiency, and the development of new technologies. Here are some key areas where the functionality of these agricultural raw materials is growing:

1. Biofuels and Bioenergy

Agricultural residues like corn cobs, wheat straw, rice husks, and bagasse are valuable feedstocks for biofuel production. They are used to produce second-generation biofuels, which do not compete with food crops and offer a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Examples include:

• Ethanol and Butanol: Produced from the fermentation of corn cobs and wheat straw.
• Biogas: Generated from anaerobic digestion of rice husks and bagasse.
• Pellets and Briquettes: Made from compacted straw and husks for use as solid biofuel………Read more