Analysis of the characteristics of the tomato manufacturing residues finalized to the energy recovery

Tomato manufacturing industry originates substantial amounts of residues. If left without control these residues can constitute an environmental problem. Their energetic use can solve this problem and give added value to the process. In this research physical-chemical characteristics of this biomass and its components are studied to evaluate the possibility of an energy recovery. In general, the dry residues of tomato processing industry are suitable as solid biofuel for energy purposes in large size power plants. The separation of components that constitute tomato residues (peels and seeds) makes sense in case of production and exploitation of oil from tomato seeds. The results can be useful for developing standards on these materials.

► Physical-chemical characteristics of the industrial tomato residues have been studied.
► We carried out analyses on tomato peels, seeds, oilcakes and extraction meals.
► We evaluated the tomato oil seed production through mechanical extraction.
► The results show significant differences between the components of the tomato residue.
► The separation in different components can be useful for tomato residues valorization.