Miscanthus giganteus: horizons of innovative research and implementation

Abstract

Purpose. To substantiate promising areas of innovative research on the utilization of Miscanthus × gigantheus as a feedstock with a high cellulose content in various industries in order to preserve forests and prevent the development of environmental disasters. Methods. The analysis of theoretical and experimental studies, existing practices regarding promising varieties of Miscanthus × giganteus, genetic studies, chemical composition, physical properties and use. Results. The botanical and chemical characteristics of miscanthus plants, chemical composition, technology of cultivation and processing into solid biofuels, the ability to clean the soil from chemical contaminants (pesticides) and radionuclides are shown, and the expediency of using miscanthus biomass as a source for bioethanol and cellulose production is proved, which contributes to its extremely wide use in various sectors of the Ukrainian economy. Conclusions. Miscanthus × gigantheus is a simple plant that can solve complex problems: in the technological process of cultivation, it contributes to the improvement of ecological processes of agriculture; it has a high calorific value as solid fuels and biogas; as a lignocellulose, biomass with a high cellulose content is a good feedstock for many applications and contributes to forest conservation and the prevention of environmental disasters.