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Grasses

Many grasses, such as Miscanthus, Indiangrass, Switchgrass, and others are used to produce second generation biofuels. The particular type of grass chosen to produce the biofuel is generally dependent on location, as some plants are more suitable to certain climates. For example, in Southeast Asia, Myscanthus is favored, while in the United States, Switchgrass is favored. 

Disadvantages of Grasses:

  • Not suitable for producing biodiesel

  • Require moist soil and do not grow well in arid climates

  • Weak competitors with weeds, so early investment in culture is important

  • Might take several years for grass to reach full harvest density

  • Need extensive processing to be made into ethanol 

Advantages of Grasses:

  • Energy for planning only need to be invested once, because the grasses are perennial

  • Can be harvested several times a year

  • Work well as direct biomass

  • High net energy yield of about 540%

  • Grow on marginal land and have low fertilizer needs

Citation I-76

Miscanthus

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