Elemental Chemical Composition of Forest Biomass at Different Ages for Energy Purposes

Dimas Agostinho Da Silva,Elder Eloy,Paulo Fernando Trugilho,Braulio Otomar Caron

doi:10.1590/2179-8087.020116

Abstract

ABSTRACT This work aimed to evaluate the elemental composition of different biomass components of the forest species Acacia mearnsii De Wild, Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill ex Maiden, Mimosa scabrella Benth and Ateleia glazioviana Baill, at their first, third and fifth year after planting, aiming at bioenergetic use. The biomass elemental composition was determined by quantifying the levels of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen. The three ages, the four species, and the four compartments differ in relation to the elementary constituents. The use of trees at any age allows for energy use. The fifth year presents the best carbon and hydrogen values, being the best age for using the biomass energy of the different species. A. mearnsii presents the highest carbon values for the leaf and A. glazioviana presents the highest hydrogen values for all compartments. The leaf is the best compartment for energetic use.

Highlights

AND OBJECTIVESThe definition of evaluation criteria to measure biomass quality is gaining increasing importance, especially in fast-growing forests
This work aimed to evaluate the elemental composition of different biomass components of the forest species Acacia mearnsii De Wild, Eucalyptus grandis W
Wood variability can be explained by several factors, such as the effect of the genetic material used, the planting site, interaction between genotype and environment, and age and spacing, which can significantly affect its chemical, physical, mechanical and anatomical composition, and influence the material’s quality for producing energy (Assis et al, 2012)

Summary

Introduction

AND OBJECTIVESThe definition of evaluation criteria to measure biomass quality is gaining increasing importance, especially in fast-growing forests. In order to evaluate this quality to generate subsidies and to define better use of the biomass, it is essential to identify the chemical, physical and mechanical properties that knowingly alter the final product. Wood variability can be explained by several factors, such as the effect of the genetic material used, the planting site, interaction between genotype and environment, and age and spacing, which can significantly affect its chemical, physical, mechanical and anatomical composition, and influence the material’s quality for producing energy (Assis et al, 2012). The choice of the species, the planting site and the analysis of their interaction becomes of fundamental importance, since they reflect in modifying the elemental composition and the physical properties of the wood (Neves et al, 2011), affecting the production and the material’s quality for generating energy

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Results