Bioenergy potential of pampa grass waste: combustion properties and economic-environmental considerations

Abstract

The EU is addressing the invasive Cortaderia selloana (CS) due to its high management costs and large waste generation. This study evaluates CS waste as a feedstock for bioenergy production through direct combustion. Thermochemical parameters, including heating values, moisture and ash content, bulk density, adiabatic flame temperature (AFT), and fuel value index, were analyzed to assess combustion performance. Biomass yield, energy output, and the economic and environmental feasibility of CS combustion were also evaluated. Results show that optimal combustion requires a moisture content below 31.70 %. The average dry biomass yield was 10.21 ± 1.22 Mg ha-1 yr-1, equivalent to 166 GJ ha-1 y r-1. The process becomes economically viable when electricity prices exceed 107 € MWh-1. Emission analysis revealed low CO, CO2, and SO2 levels but elevated NOx emissions. Overall, CS waste represents a sustainable bioenergy resource and an environmentally friendly strategy for non-chemical control of this invasive species.