Investigating the Potential of Indica Canna Rhizome for Bioethanol Production

Abstract

Madagascar's energy landscape is heavily reliant on finite fossil fuels and charcoal, raising concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. The burgeoning industrial sector and escalating energy demands necessitate a shift towards eco-friendly and renewable alternatives. This research delves into the potential of Canna indica, a rhizomatous plant, for bioethanol production.

Bioethanol extraction was achieved by harnessing the starch content of Canna indica rhizomes through a multi-step process involving enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, and distillation. The starch content of the peeled dry extract was found to be 74.5% basis on dry matter, yielding 72.30 ml of bioethanol ranging from 6° to 45°. The unpeeled dry extract produced 64.67 ml of bioethanol ranging from 5° to 30°, while the fresh rhizome yielded 64.79 ml of bioethanol ranging from 6° to 44°. The remaining waste biomass, including leaves, stems, and distillation residues, was utilized for the production of biochar and briquettes, as detailed in another article.