Beyond waste in agriculture: Feedstock characterization for thermochemical conversion based on potato above-ground biomass

Agricultural residues represent a valuable opportunity to develop circular bioeconomic systems centered on biomass. Characterizing this type of biomass can alleviate the pressure on current biomass sources (e.g., in forests and their biodiversity), enhance agricultural waste management, and reduce crop field emissions. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the potential of agricultural plant-based residues as feedstock for thermochemical conversion processes, focusing on potato above-ground biomass to enhance herbaceous characterization. The gravimetric characterization of this type of biomass revealed a water content of 89 % for potato above-ground biomass with differences per plant section. Biomass abundance was also measured, showing that well-developed leaves and main stems were more plentiful. After 70 days after planting (DAP), maximum plant development was achieved, differing from heights development at 40 DAP. Hence, identifying specific times for residue recovery can help develop strategies for biomass recovery, thereby reducing pretreatment costs following the selection of suitable conversion technologies.