Biopolymeric composition analysis of buckwheat husk

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the chemical composition of buckwheat husk to determine its suitability for reuse as a compost additive in the form of biochar. An important role in the production of biochar is played by the chemical composition of the raw material, particularly the content of such components as lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose, which significantly affect the characteristics and properties of biochar. To achieve the aim of the study, a biopolymer analysis of buckwheat husks was carried out. The nitrogen content was determined by the Kjeldahl method, pectin substances by spectrophotometry, and hemicellulose by hydrolysis of easily hydrolysed polysaccharides. Hydrolysis with concentrated H2SO4 was used to determine the cellulose content, and lignin was determined as a residual product after cellulose removal. Each experiment was performed in

triplicate to obtain accurate data. The results of the study showed that the protein content in buckwheat hulls is 4.8 % ± 0.1,

pectin substances - 3.1 % ± 0.1. Among the lignocellulosic components, lignin accounts for the largest share - 36.3 % ± 0.1, while the cellulose content is 27.4 % ± 0.1, and hemicellulose - 15.5 % ± 0.2. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that the biopolymer composition of buckwheat hulls indicates that such raw materials are promising to produce high-quality biochar.

The production and subsequent use of biochar from such raw materials as an additive to compost can positively affect the decomposition of organic waste and improve the properties of compost, making it an important component in the field of environmentally friendly waste management.