Bagasse is the fibrous byproduct left over after the juice from sugarcane stalks is extracted. It is mostly used in the production of paper and other fibre-based goods, as well as biofuel. Several characteristics of bagasse include:

1. Composition: Bagasse is composed mainly of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Cellulose is the primary component, accounting for about 45–55% of the dry weight, followed by hemicellulose (20–25%) and lignin (15–25%).

2. Moisture content: The moisture content of bagasse can vary depending on storage and processing conditions. Typically, it has a high moisture content when freshly harvested, ranging from 50% to 60%. However, it is usually dried before use, reducing the moisture content to around 10–15%.

3. Energy content: Bagasse is an excellent source of biomass energy due to its high calorific value. On average, bagasse has a calorific value of approximately 7,000–8,000 BTU/lb (16–19 MJ/kg). This makes it suitable for use as a fuel in boilers and power generation.

4. Bulk density: The bulk density of bagasse varies depending on factors such as particle size and moisture content. Typically, it ranges from 100–200 kg/m3 (6–12 lb/ft3). However, this value can differ based on the compression and compaction of the bagasse.

5. Fibre length and strength: Bagasse fibres are generally short and possess moderate strength. The fibre length varies between 1-2 mm, and the tensile strength ranges from 0.8–1.5 g/denier. These properties make bagasse suitable for paper production and fiberboard manufacturing.

6. pH value: The pH value of bagasse is slightly acidic, typically ranging from 5 to 6.

7. Water retention: Bagasse has good water retention properties, making it useful in applications such as soil improvement and erosion control.

8. Ash content: Bagasse contains inorganic materials, primarily in the form of ash. The ash content can range from 1–4% by weight, depending on the quality of the sugarcane and the processing methods employed.