To effectively operate burning system of lignin residues from bamboo papermaking factories to provide heating, the calorific value, proximate and ultimate analysis of lignin samples with different washing processes were determined. Their combustion properties were also investigated by TGA Q500 at different heating rates. The results showed that washing processes changed fuel properties of lignin samples. The ash content decreased and the volatile content increased during washing process. They had a different content of C, H, O, N, S and calorific value. The effect of acid-soluble and acid-insoluble lignin on calorific value was not significant. Even though combustion process of all lignin samples included four stages, about 41-65% of weight loss occurred at the IV stage. The combustion characteristics and kinetics of lignin samples also varied at different heating rates. This research will provide scientific guideline for utilization of lignin residues from the bamboo papermaking industry as a biofuel. (c) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.