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@article{203668,
        author = {Jonathan Mutonyi and Forster Andanje},
        title = {Temporal evaluation of bagasse from sugar mills in western Kenya},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {1},
        pages = {554-559},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=203668},
        abstract = {Sugarcane bagasse from legacy dumpsites was analysed to determine its suitability for energy conversion, material applications, and environmental impact. Through a partnership between Kibabii University, Carbon Footprint Limited, Kenya and Craig Anderson PWE Heat and Power UK, bagasse samples dumped 0-15 years ago were subjected to proximate and ultimate analysis at Alfred H Knight Energy Services Ltd (20-Jun-2025 to 04-Jul-2025). Removed ash contributors and elemental ash content fell within the typical range for most biomass feedstock. Moisture content and volatile matter declined by 1.4% and 24.2% respectively while ash content and fixed carbon increased through time. All elemental oxides dropped through time except SiO2 and Al2O3 that increased by 14.8 % and 57.9 % respectively. This data was essential in determining the heating values, air requirements for combustion, and potential yields in gasification or pyrolysis equipment and operating conditions for biochar production. Biochar is known to improve soil fertility, and sequester carbon. Recycling ash into soil reduces waste and supports circular economy practices, aligning with Kenya’s green growth agenda.},
        keywords = {Sugarcane bagasse, proximate & ultimate analysis, biochar, circular economy},
        month = {June},
        }