•Composition: Rice hulls consist mostly of cellulose, lignin, and silica. They are lightweight, tough, and have a hard texture.
•Uses in Agriculture: They are often used as a soil amendment for improving soil texture and aeration. Also, they can be used as a substrate for mushroom cultivation and as mulch in gardening and landscaping.
•Industrial Applications: In industries, rice hulls are used for producing silica and silicon compounds, as an insulating material, and in the production of fireproof building materials. They are also used as a renewable energy source for biomass power plants.
•Livestock Bedding: Due to their absorbent nature and relative softness, rice hulls are used as bedding for livestock.
•Environmental Impact: Rice hulls are an eco-friendly material. They are biodegradable and can be used as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials in various applications.
•Challenges in Disposal: In regions with high rice production, the disposal of rice hulls can pose a challenge. However, with the increasing recognition of their potential uses, this challenge is being turned into an opportunity for sustainable practices.