Fractionation of rice husk for the co-production of biofuel and value-added bioproducts

Abstract

Uruguay, a major rice producer, generates large amounts of rice husk (~1.2 million tons in 2019/2020). Due to its high silica content (~20%) and low biodegradability, this residue is usually underutilized, often burned for energy with limited efficiency. This study explores a biorefinery approach to fractionate rice husk and recover its main components. The aim is to produce bioethanol from glucan-rich solids while valorizing silica, lignin, furfural and succinic acid as value-added co-products. This strategy supports waste valorization and contributes to the development of a sustainable circular bioeconomy.