Arundo donax for Biomass Ethanol, Fiber, Carbon Sequestration
Project Investigators: William Pan, WSU; Bob Stevens, WSU; Troy Peters; Joe Yenish, WSU; Bob Parker, WSU; Bill McKean
January, 2008 Progress Report
What is known:
- Arundo donax is known as one of the highest cellulosic biomass producing plant species known, clearly higher than forage grasses, switchgrass and hybrid poplar. Recent studies at Prosser, WA
- Arundo has a perennial growth habit, does not produce seed under temperate growing conditions, reproduces vegetatively from apical internodes and root corms.
- Arundo is an invasive weed in many areas of the U.S., particularly where it was introduced to control erosion along stream banks.
- Available herbicides effectively control Arundo.
- Arundo is reported to be a C3 plant.
- Arundo forms an equally impressive below ground root biomass
- Arundo stands remain intact through harsh winter conditions, and when harvested, will re-grow in the spring.
- Initial baseline data on cellulose, lignin, hemicelluloses and ash composition, biomass yields in south Columbia Basin have been collected.
- Arundo may be a very appealing pulp fiber source for the PNW paper industry.
What is not known:
- What is the physiological and genetic basis for its extraordinary biomass yields, and are these traits transferrable to other crop species?
- Is there genetic diversity amongst ecotypes?
- What are the potential pathogens and insects in long term plantations? Thus far, we have observed little susceptibility in small plots of young plantations, increased pest pressures are likely in older and more widespread plantations.
- What are planting and harvesting techniques commercially available for large scale production?
- What are the proper agronomic management practices, storage, and transportation requirements to preserve biomass quality and prevent escapes?
- What carbon credits can be garnered for growing Arundo?
- What are the specific water, nutrient and plant spacings, number of cuttings required for optimal biomass production?
Current research:
Two stands of Arundo donax have been established at Prosser WA. The first stand of 63 ft x 81 ft was established in March 2003 with stems and rhizomes collected from California. It was observed that a much higher percentage of rhizomes sprouted compared to the stems. A second larger stand (160 ft x 160 ft) was established in May 2006 using all rhizomes from California. Incomplete stand establishment was due to the presence of non-viable rhizomes and the late planting date. Transplants were made into these areas in an attempt to fill in the stand. This second stand was set up to establish plots for examining planting density, water and nutrient variables, as well as herbicide control treatments. The 2006 planting was established with two in row spacings (18 and 36 inches). In 2007, two irrigation regimes were imposed with half of the plots receiving replacement irrigation at 100% and half receiving 66% of replacement. First year yields have ranged from 2 to 11 tons/acre, second year yields have ranged 12 to 22 tons/acre, third year 15 to 25 tons/acre.
Funding:
This preliminary research has been supported by private gifts. We intend to apply for special grant funding to formerly initiate research on this promising biomass species.
Heading using the h3tag
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