TERMOCONVERSIÓN DE RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS DE LA INDUSTRIA AZUCARERA PARA INCREMENTAR LA SOSTENIBILIDAD DE LOS PROCESOS

Abstract

In the last decade there has been a growing interest in the added value that have the lignocellulosic wastes which come from agricultural and forestry industries. The research focused on removable or synthesizable products from these materials becomes important. In this scientific context arises the idea of developing facilities similar to the conventional refining facilities, but using the biomass as feedstock, so they are called
biorefineries.
In Cuba, the sugar industry is mired in a crisis of over 20 years, basically built on the reduced agricultural yields, low diversification of production and technical deplorable state of facilities. The sugarcane production amounts to approximately 25 MM tons per year, of which almost 50% is bagasse and agricultural residues (RAC) with high potential for the production of energy and chemicals. The aim of this study is to identify the potential for biorefining with bagasse and agricultural waste sugar cane for the production of chemicals and energy so that the competitiveness and sustainability of this sector increases. Conversion strategies are defined by thermochemical and biological pathway of sugar cane biomass. In addition, R & D needs to be resolved before establishing sugarcane biorefinery in the Cuban context.