Bhoi, R., Patro, A., Sarkar, A. (2024). Sustainable Transformation of Agricultural Waste into Value-Added End Products Through Thermochemical Approach and End Product Characteristics. In: Neelancherry, R., Gao, B., Wisniewski Jr, A. (eds) Agricultural Waste to Value-Added Products. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-2535-9_1

The agricultural sector generates vast amounts of waste, much of which is not efficiently used, posing risks to global health and the environment. To address this, significant efforts are needed for the sustainable utilization of agricultural waste. Achieving net zero carbon emissions requires a shift from conventional, fossil fuel-dependent energy and products to renewable and low-carbon alternatives. Agricultural waste is a carbon-neutral resource with the potential to produce energy and valuable products like polyphenolic compounds, bio-oil, biopolymers, syngasSyngas, or synthesis gas, is a fuel gas mixture consisting primarily of hydrogen and carbon monoxide. It is produced during gasification and can be used as a fuel source or as a feedstock for producing other chemicals and fuels.   More, biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More, and charcoalCharcoal is a black, brittle, and porous material produced by heating wood or other organic substances in a low-oxygen environment. It is primarily used as a fuel source for cooking and heating.   More. Its sludge, rich in minerals and organic compounds, can be combined with biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More waste through thermochemical co-processing, presenting a promising solution.

This approach involves converting agricultural waste via methods such as pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More, solvent extraction, microwave, sonication, torrefaction, gasificationGasification is a high-temperature, thermochemical process that converts carbon-based materials into a gaseous fuel called syngas and solid by-products. It takes place in an oxygen-deficient environment at temperatures typically above 750°C. Unlike combustion, which fully burns material to produce heat and carbon dioxide (CO2​), gasification More, combustion, and hydrothermal liquefaction. The synergy of these processes can enhance efficiency and improve the properties of the resulting products beyond conventional methods. The products derived from this thermochemical conversion can be used in various industries, including chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food processing. By integrating these processes, we can make significant strides toward sustainable waste management and the development of low-carbon alternatives, contributing to a healthier environment and advancing the goal of net zero carbon emissions.