When cassava is used for bioethanol production, different forms including fresh roots, chips
and starch can be used. Table 6 summarizes advantages and disadvantages of using
different forms of cassava feedstock. The factory has to make and manage an effective
feedstock plan as the feedstock cost can account upto 70%of total ethanol production cost.
Types of feedstock used for bioethanol plants depend on many concerns including plant
production capacity, plant location, nearby cassava growing areas, amount of feedstock
available and processing technology. Ethanol plants that are not close to cassava farms
prefer to use dried chips to reduce costs of transportation and storage, while those locating
next to cassava fields can use chips and roots. When using both feedstocks, the plants have
to somewhat adjust the process in particular feedstock preparation.