Comparative Modelling and Statistical Optimization of Bioethanol Production from Yam, Plantain, and Potato Peels Using Fermentation Performance Indicators

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable, low-carbon energy has led to increased interest in second-generation agro-waste-based bioethanol. The paper has discussed the possibility of producing bioethanol through fermentation and distillation of the peels of yams, plantains, and potatoes under predetermined conditions, and has compared the statistical evaluation and optimization of the process. A laboratory-scale experimental design was employed, in which the feedstocks were pretreated, fermented, and recovered under identical conditions to produce ethanol. The quantities of ethanol formed, sugar levels, pH, and physicochemical measurements were recorded and evaluated using descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and multivariate linear regression modelling. The results revealed a significant difference in ethanol yield among the feedstocks (p < 0.05), with yam peels producing the highest (30%), followed by plantain peels (22%) and potato peels (16%). Sugar content showed a strong association with ethanol yield and was the most important variable in the regression equation, whereas fermentation pH had a secondary but still significant influence. Although the potato peels contained moderate amounts of sugar, they were poor due to the likely inhibitory effects of their biochemical composition. In general, the findings indicate that the efficiency of fermentation of agro-waste feedstocks is highly dispersed, and statistical modelling is necessary to provide critical insights rather than merely descriptive yield comparisons. The paper concludes that yam peels are the most viable single granule substrate for bioethanol production, whilst potential improvements in the use of plantation and potato peels can be achieved through improved pretreatment or co-fermentation. These results affirm the perception that agro-waste valorisation may be regarded as a self-realising, sustainable approach to bioenergy development.