Avaliação do potencial energético do bioetanol produzido a partir de cascas de mandioca

Abstract

The increasing need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impacts drives the search for renewable energy sources, with bioethanol emerging as a viable and sustainable alternative. In Mozambique, a large portion of the rural population still relies on firewood and charcoal to meet their energy needs, contributing to deforestation and CO₂ emissions, thereby reinforcing the need for clean and accessible energy alternatives. This study aims to assess the energy potential of bioethanol produced from cassava peels by analysing its yield, physicochemical properties, and energy applicability. The methodology involved the collection of the raw material, production and characterization of bioethanol. The results showed a yield of 0.105 ml/g (105l/ton), an alcohol content of 94.92% (v/v), a density of 815.11 kg/m³, and a calorific value of 19.26 kJ/g; with a lower heating value than the reference values due to thermal losses associated with the cup calorimetry method, suggesting the need for more precise techniques such as bomb calorimetry. It is concluded that, although the yield obtained was lower than that reported in the literature, the bioethanol produced is viable for energy use, particularly for lighting and cooking in rural communities without access to electricity. The adoption of this energy source could reduce dependence on solid fuels, mitigate CO₂ emissions, and minimise the environmental impacts associated with deforestation, highlighting the importance of utilising agricultural waste for biofuel production as part of a sustainable energy transition in Mozambique.