The potential of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] for sustainable bioethanol production in Alentejo

Abstract

The importance of biofuels (biodiesel and bioethanol) in the next future, and the potential of sweet sorghum for bioethanol production are discussed.

Results of a trial with four irrigation treatments (1500, 2500, 3500 e 4500 m³/ha) applied, to one variety of sweet sorghum, are presented. The soluble solids content (ºBrix) of the fresh stalks and plant height were monitored along the life cycle of the crop. The yield of fresh stalks and the dry matter yield of stalks, leaves and inflorescences were determined. Sugar and bioethanol yields were also estimated.

The results showed that the 4500 m³/ha irrigation treatment conducted to the best results in all variables, except for the Brix values that were similar to the 3500 m³/ha treatment (17 and 16%, respectively). With that irrigation treatment, and if the results are confirmed in the future, it will be expected that bioethanol yields from sweet sorghum grown in Alentejo can be expected to be over 5000 l/ha.