Title:
Economic and Agronomic Assessment Model for Second- or Cover-Soybean Cropping to Supply Stover for Modular Gasification in U.S. Midwest Farmlands
Author(s):
van Tonder, G.C., Botha, W.N.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
A model is presented within this paper that evaluates the agronomic feasibility and farm-level economics of intentionally integrating either a second (double-crop) soybean cycle or targeted legume/biomass cover crops into U.S. Midwest rotations to increase available crop residue (stover) for modular biomass gasification. The following is coupled within the model: (a) an agronomic synthesis of relevant literature and regional yield databases to estimate incremental biomass yield from second-crop soybeans and from dedicated cover crops; (b) a sustainable residue-removal model that constrains harvest to levels that protect soil organic matter and erosion thresholds; (c) a logistics and densification model (baling, on-farm storage, truck transport, aggregation hubs) to estimate delivered cost to a local modular 10 t/h baseline gasifier; and (d) a farm- and project-level techno-economic model that monetizes energy (CHP/power), biochar co-products, carbon credits from biochar sequestration and soil carbon co-benefits, and farmer payments/tipping fees. Scenarios analyzed include Conservative (current rotation stover only), Base (existing rotation + cover crops managed for biomass), and Optimized (targeted second-soybean or high-yield cover-crop strategies in climatically suitable areas).
Keywords:
gasification, cover crop, farming
Topic:
Industry Track
Subtopic:
Sustainable biomass production and carbon management for industrial applications
Event:
34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
IDV.3.3
Pages:
1104 - 1112
ISBN:
978-88-89407-27-1
Paper DOI:
10.5071/34thEUBCE2026-IDV.3.3
Price:
FREE
