Thermal Conversion of Sugarcane Bagasse and Groundnut Shell Blends Into Efficient Solid Biofuel Using Microwave Torrefaction for Integration of Renewable Technologies in Cities

Abstract The rising demand for sustainable energy sources has prompted a study exploring microwave‐assisted torrefaction to produce solid biofuel from sugarcane bagasse and groundnut shell waste. These wastes have great potential to be used as a solid fuel. However, the properties such as high moisture and oxygen content, low grindability, and heating value hinder these wastes from being utilized in thermal power plants. To improve these properties, torrefaction can be a promising process that helps upgrade these wastes' properties. This study aims to perform co‐torrefaction of sugarcane bagasse and groundnut shell under microwave technology, which means varying microwave power and residence time to maximize energy yield (EY) and quality of torrefied products. The study found that a mixture of 25% sugarcane bagasse and 75% groundnut shells at 225 °C provided a significantly higher heating value of 29.81 MJ kg ⁻¹ , comparable to coal, and a maximum processing efficiency of 86.46%. The highest EY of 110% is obtained at 225 °C using 50% sugarcane bagasse and 50% groundnut shells. The increased HHV and EY of torrefied products would motivate policymakers to use these solid fuels in heating and power production.