Analysis of the Potential for Thermochemical Utilization of Post-Production Maize Waste Through the Production of Coal Substitutes in the Pyrolysis Process

Abstract

The dynamic growth of global maize production results in the generation of large amounts of residues originating from both cultivation and processing, creating a need to develop efficient and sustainable management pathways. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing selected maize-derived residues (straw, cobs, technical maize, and post-fermentation DDGS) for the production of densified solid fuels based on biochar obtained through pyrolysis at 500 °C. The study included analyses of the mineral composition of biomass and biochar, determination of biochar yield, ash content, and higher heating value (HHV). The biochar yield ranged from 30.19% to 42.49%, with the highest values obtained for DDGS (dried distillers grains with solubles). The pyrolysis process led to an increase in HHV to 25.3–32.14 MJ/kg. These values are comparable to the calorific values of hard coal. The results indicate that biochar derived from maize residues may represent a promising feedstock for the production of solid fuels with increased energy density, while the ashes generated during their combustion show potential for agricultural applications.