A Hidden Energy Source: Giant Reed (Arundo donax L.)

Fossil-based fuels while supply the energy needs of the world, on the other hand release greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere. In the last quarter century, biomass energy has gained importance, particularly in direct combustion systems. The continuity of raw material is an important matter in biomass energy production. At this point, giant reed (Arundo donax L.), a perennial C3 plant that can be easily grown in different ecological conditions, has drawn considerable interest in various countries of the world, mainly in Southern Europe and Costa Rica. The calorific value of the giant reed, which can deliver up to 100 tons of biomass per hectare under suitable conditions, is between 17,200 – 20,600 kj/kg. In this study, the usability of the giant reed, this unable to exceed the local usage in our country, in combustion systems was examined in the light of the studies in the literature. This review had been compiled under three main frameworks as general properties and usage areas, chemical characterization, biomass amount and calorific value of the giant reed. Thus, it had been tried to form a technical basis for the industrial usage of giant reed in combustion systems.