Cultivation and Characterization of Cynara Cardunculus for Solid Biofuels Production in the Mediterranean Region
2008

Cultivation and Characterization of Cardoon for Biofuels

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Grammelis Panagiotis, Malliopoulou Anastasia, Basinas Panagiotis, Danalatos Nicholas G.

Primary Institution: Institute for Solid Fuels Technology and Applications/Centre for Research & Technology Hellas

Hypothesis

Can Cynara cardunculus be effectively cultivated for solid biofuel production in the Mediterranean region?

Conclusion

Cynara cardunculus can be used as a solid biofuel of acceptable quality under certain conditions.

Supporting Evidence

  • Cardoon can produce high biomass yields with minimal inputs.
  • It can be cultivated without agrochemicals, reducing environmental risks.
  • Cardoon's biomass has a high calorific value, making it a promising biofuel.
  • Field experiments showed cardoon can yield over 25 tons per hectare with irrigation.

Takeaway

Cardoon is a tough plant that can grow well in dry areas and can be turned into biofuel, which is good for the environment and farmers.

Methodology

Field experiments were conducted to analyze the growth and combustion behavior of cardoon under various conditions.

Limitations

Limited information on growth and biomass productivity under different soil-environmental conditions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/ijms9071241

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