Researchers at Henan Agricultural University are studying a new way to use tobacco plants by converting them into bioethanol rather than cigarettes. The work is being led by scientists at the National Tobacco Cultivation, Physiology and Biochemistry Research Centre and shows a straightforward method to turn tobacco leaves into biofuel, reports World Bio Market Insights.
As per the news report, the method involves heating fresh tobacco leaves in water under controlled temperature and pressure. This breaks down more than 65 per cent of the plant material and produces a liquid rich in nutrients that can be fermented by microbes to make ethanol. The process avoids the heavy chemical treatments normally required in biofuel production, making it less energy-intensive.
According to the researchers, tobacco is easier to process than many other energy crops because of its natural makeup. Tobacco’s unique composition makes it easier to process than crops like switchgrass or Miscanthus. It is rich in water-soluble carbohydrates and nitrogen, with relatively low lignin levels. Environmental assessments suggest that cultivating tobacco on marginal or degraded lands globally could produce approximately 573 billion gallons of ethanol each year. Compared to conventional lignocellulosic fuels, tobacco-derived ethanol could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption by about 76 percent.
The researchers say the approach could offer new income options for tobacco farmers at a time when global demand for cigarettes is falling. It could also help climate efforts by lowering emissions linked to fuel production. However, they note that challenges remain, including the toxic effect of nicotine on the fermentation process, which would require treatment or specially adapted microbes.
The work is still at an early laboratory stage, and further testing, pilot projects and cost studies will be needed before the process can be used commercially. The team also recommends growing tobacco on marginal land to avoid competition with food crops and to protect soil health and biodiversity.
