Khon Kaen University has developed a technology that converts sugarcane leaves into bio-oil, offering a new way to reduce agricultural waste while supporting clean energy production. The prototype system is capable of producing up to 1,000 litres of bio-oil per day.
The project, led by the university’s Academic Service Office, uses pyrolysis technology to transform sugarcane leaves and tops into liquid biofuel. The process involves heating the biomass at high temperatures without oxygen. Along with bio-oil, the technology also generates biochar, a valuable material used to improve soil quality, Bangkok Post reported.
According to Associate Professor Chuchat Kamollert, Director of the Academic Service Office, the project was developed in collaboration with the Office of the Cane and Sugar Board. The initiative aims to lower production costs for farmers while helping tackle environmental problems caused by the burning of agricultural waste.
Researchers have also successfully blended the bio-oil with fuel produced from plastic waste. The mixed fuel has been tested for use in agricultural machinery and motorcycles, contributing to lower exhaust emissions and reduced pollution.
The project is being developed alongside the Mitr Phol Group, which is exploring ways to commercialise the technology and expand clean-energy solutions in farming communities.
Professor Chuchat said the prototype machine can generate around 1,000 litres of bio-oil each day. Approximately four kilograms of sugarcane leaves are required to produce one litre of oil. Before processing, the leaves are shredded into pieces measuring 2–4 millimetres and then heated at temperatures ranging from 400°C to 600°C inside a reactor chamber.
In a separate development, researchers at Nakhon Phanom University have created an alternative fuel from a wild grass locally known as ya oi noo. The grass is being used to produce bioethanol for agricultural engines.
Assistant Professor Harit Khlongdee from the university’s Energy Engineering programme said the research focuses on reducing dependence on fossil fuels by using locally available plants with high sugar content as a source of renewable energy.
