Assessment of Common Reed (Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud.) Biomass Suitability for Solid Biofuels Production

Abstract

From the uncontrolled proliferation of invasive plants, several challenges for the environment arise. Invasive wetland grasses biomass can be collected for biofuel production, thus offering a sustainable solution for invasive plants’ management and contributing to the renewable energy sector. The straw-like shoot biomass of common reed (Phragmites australis), widespread across temperate and tropical zones, has been examined to assess its potential use for energy purposes. We seek to determine the fuel-energy characteristics of common reed biomass, which are necessary for converting it into energy through combustion. A comprehensive analysis was conducted to determine the physical and chemical properties of biomass according to the ISO standards for solid biofuels. These properties included calorific values, moisture, ash and volatile matter contents, and contents of C, H, N, and major and minor elements, as well as ash melting behaviour. The measured values were also compared to standard limits for different classes of densified biofuels. Based on the results, the net calorific value (15.33 MJ/kg ar) and other parameters met the requirements for the class A quality of non-woody briquettes and pellets. The only parameters which exceeded the class A limits were ash content (7.1% d.b.) and Cl content (0.16% d.b.). The findings of this study are important for the potential utilisation of common reed biomass for bioenergy as a step towards contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals.