## 1 Introduction
Recent studies have explored the potential of cocoa by-products as feedstock for thermochemical processes. [PERSON] et al. (2023) investigated a low-cost pyrolysis route for valorizing cocoa pod husks from Ecuador's Amazonian region, aiming at producing bio-oil, biochar, and gas as alternative chemical sources. Their results demonstrated that catalytic upgrading significantly influenced product yields, particularly favoring bio-oil fractions, which could serve as biofuels or feedstock for chemical industries. Furthermore, this study emphasized the importance of selecting appropriate catalysts to optimize the chemical composition of the derived bio-oils [16]. In addition to thermochemical applications, cocoa bean shells have shown potential for the development of functional food products. [PERSON] et al. (2024) explored the use of cocoa bean shell powder for biofunctional infusions, highlighting its high antioxidant capacity and bioactive compound content. This demonstrates that cocoa by-products can be repurposed beyond energy production, contributing to the food and nutraceutical industries [17]. Despite these advancements, there remains a notable research gap concerning the CCN-51 variety, which is exclusive to Ecuador. Most studies on cocoa waste valorization have focused on other Theobroma cacao varieties, while specific investigations into CCN-51 remain scarce. [PERSON] et al. (2024) conducted a comprehensive review on cocoa pod husk utilization, emphasizing the need for novel green technologies to optimize its use in food, cosmetics, and bioenergy applications. Their findings reinforced that the lack of valorization strategies contributes to environmental concerns, as cocoa pod husks are often left to decompose, releasing methane and contributing to soil degradation. This underscores the necessity of developing targeted waste management approaches specifically adapted to Ecuadorian cocoa varieties [18]. Additionally, innovative bioenergy applications using cocoa residues have gained interest in recent years. [PERSON] et al. (2023) highlighted the potential of cocoa waste-derived biochar for soil amendment, carbon sequestration, and energy generation, further reinforcing its role in circular economy strategies. However, challenges persist regarding the optimization of processing conditions, economic viability, and scalability of these technologies, particularly for CCN51, which differs from other cocoa varieties in chemical composition and structural characteristics [16]. Therefore, the current research aims to explore the thermochemical vaporization of cocoa waste derived from the CCN51 variety. By focusing on this specific cultivar, this study seeks to develop sustainable waste management practices that can be applied within Ecuador and potentially extended to other regions cultivating CCN-51. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns associated with cocoa production but also contributes to the development of renewable energy sources. Moreover, integrating bio-functional applications with energy valorization could create synergies that enhance the economic feasibility of cocoa waste utilization while promoting circular economy models in the agro-industrial sector [18]. This study, therefore, presents a novel contribution by focusing on the potential of CCN51 cocoa shells, exclusive to Ecuador, as a feedstock for thermochemical processes: combustion, pyrolysis, and gasification. This is the first investigation to explore the viability of CCN51 cocoa shells for these processes, providing new insights into their energy potential. The results not only offer sustainable solutions for agro-industrial waste management but also contribute to diversifying Ecuador's energy matrix and supporting the country's green transition. By using local, abundant resources for bioenergy, this study presents an innovative approach to addressing both environmental and economic challenges.