Obtaining Biogenic Silica from Sugarcane Bagasse and Leaf Ash

Besides mineral sources, silica can be found in plants, particularly in the epidermis, since during their growth plants absorb the mono-silicic acid present in the soil, storing it as a natural form of protection, insect pest control and transpiration regulator. Among the plants that present high levels of silica in their ashes, we can highlight sugarcane, with Brazil being the largest producer of sugarcane derived (sugar and bioethanol) in the...