Abstract
The process of generating energy through biomass is a viable alternative for the industrial sector. There are infinite materials that can be used in energy conversion. However, the generation of waste from conversion (ash) is one of drawbacks. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine ash contents and identify semi quantitatively the main chemical elements in the wood ash progenies of 10 clones of rubber tree [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. Ex Adr. De Juss.) Muell-Arg. by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) analyses. Hevea brasiliensis presented low ash content, a favorable characteristic for energy conversion, being favorable in the conversion of biomass into energy. Thus, by ash analysis it possible to identify fundamental chemical elements that can be used in agriculture calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Including soil correction, and low levels of toxic elements, allowing new approaches of this product in the segment.
Highlights
Scanning electron microscopy along with dispersive energy spectrometry (SEM/EDS) are elementary microanalysis techniques widely applied in the physical and biological sciences, engineering, technology, and forensic investigations (Goldstein et al, 2003)
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis allows the identification and quantification of elements by characteristic peaks generated from the electrons for all biomass constituent (Newbury; Ritchie, 2012)
Garcia et al (2014) reports thar main problem with the energy application of biomass is the clogging of burning equipment caused by the deposition of combustion residues
Summary
Scanning electron microscopy along with dispersive energy spectrometry (SEM/EDS) are elementary microanalysis techniques widely applied in the physical and biological sciences, engineering, technology, and forensic investigations (Goldstein et al, 2003). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis allows the identification and quantification of elements by characteristic peaks generated from the electrons for all biomass constituent (Newbury; Ritchie, 2012). The ashes (inorganic material) of the wood corresponds to mineral components present in the vegetables, which vary between species and individuals of same species. Silva et al (1983) mention that ash percentage for forest biomass is mainly affected by physiological age, tree size, soil type and nutritional characteristics of each species. There are studies that highlight wood, since it presents higher proportions of certain elements in its constitution (Rocha, 2011).
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