Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) characteristics and utilisation potential for bio-ethanol production
Report prepared by Dr Lourens du Plessis (5 July 2007)

General description

Cassava is a plant with an underground root (tuber) and it is characterised as a highly effective producer of carbohydrates, mainly starch. A comprehensive overview of the plant is provided in reference (1). Cassava is considered the fourth most important energy source for human consumption. It is grows mainly in tropical environments. However, apart from its high starch content, the plant also contains cyanide glucosides. The high cassava starch content invited interest from bio-fuel producers, and viability studies (2) have been reported.

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Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) characteristics and utilisation potential for bio-ethanol production
Kenmerke van Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) en benuttingspotensiaal vir bio-etanol produksie