By Andi Anderson
University of Illinois researchers are exploring the potential of switchgrass, a deep-rooted prairie plant, as a biofuel source for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Their findings suggest that this native crop offers multiple benefits—both economically and environmentally—especially when grown on marginal land.
The SAF Grand Challenge launched in 2021 aims to produce 35 billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel by 2050. Switchgrass is one of the promising bioenergy crops expected to contribute significantly to this target.
It grows well on low-quality farmland, requires less fertilizer than corn, and provides important ecosystem services.
Researchers tested three high-yielding switchgrass cultivars—Independence, Liberty, and Shawnee—alongside two traditional forage types in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The team, led by postdoctoral researcher Muhammad Umer Arshad, studied how profitable each type was under two fertilizer levels.
Results showed that the newer cultivars, especially Independence and Liberty, performed better in most locations. Although the best fertilizer rate varied by site, the newer types consistently outperformed the traditional forage varieties in terms of yield and profitability.
In a separate study, postdoctoral fellow Nictor Namoi compared switchgrass to corn in terms of environmental impact. He found that switchgrass plots released far less nitrous oxide and nitrate into the environment. While carbon dioxide levels were higher due to larger root systems, the plant still showed great promise for long-term carbon storage.
Professor DoKyoung Lee, who oversaw both studies, said, “When we measure total biomass of switchgrass, there’s about 10 megagrams of carbon belowground. That’s huge.”
Overall, the research highlights switchgrass as a powerful alternative to corn for sustainable fuel. It offers farmers a way to use unproductive land efficiently while supporting clean energy goals.
Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum
Categories: Illinois, Energy