Uso de residuos vegetales para la generación sostenible de energía calórica: una revisión

The primary sector, which commonly operates as a linear production system, generates much waste. This review article addresses the growing global problem of managing these wastes derived from agricultural production activities, given their environmental, social, and public health impact. It highlights the need to implement sustainable practices, focusing on using plant residues to produce briquettes, a type of solid biofuel. A variety of plant, forestry, agricultural, and household organic materials can be used to make briquettes. Their production requires consideration of factors, such as density, pressure, moisture content, and the type of binder used. Lignin, present in plant and forest residues, plays a key role in the density and strength of briquettes, as well as in their combustion capacity. Forestry and agricultural residues stand out as important inputs for the production of briquettes, contributing to the generation of renewable energies and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Promising studies show the potential of residues, such as those from urban pruning and fruit and seed husks, as researchers have carried out experiments using different combinations of materials and binders. In these processes, the type and amount of binder used significantly influences the properties of the briquettes, affecting their thermal capacity, combustion, and durability. Both organic (starch and molasses) and inorganic (clay, cement) binders play a significant role in influencing the properties of the briquettes, with each having its advantages and disadvantages. The choice of the appropriate binder depends on the type of raw material and the desired properties of the briquettes. In conclusion, the production and use of briquettes from vegetable waste represents an innovative and sustainable solution for waste management and energy generation. This practice offers environmental, social, and economic benefits - among them, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions - whose adoption and promotion are essential to move towards a more circular and sustainable economy.