1.Field experience in working with harvesting and
post-harvest handling of corn stover speci4cally for
bioenergy applications is limited.
2. The present practice for corn stover collection consists
of shredding with Mail choppers, raking into a
windrow, and baling.
3. Limited published literature shows that, in monitored
4eld tests, 30% of the corn stover was collected.
Losses occurred during each operation, including
shredding, windrowing, and pickup.
4. It appears timeliness for collection and moisture
content are among major engineering issues for 4eld
and o)-the-4eld handling of corn stover.
5. Data on safe temperature, moisture content, and
time of storage is not available for corn stover. The
maximum 20% moisture content for safe storage is
quoted based on experience with hay.
6. Technical data on pelleting and cubing of corn
stover is non-existent.
7. Engineering research on physical characterization
of corn stover for the entire post-harvest operations
is needed in order to develop appropriate handling
equipment and optimum logistics for stover.