Evolution of the quality of forest biomass for energy generation in a cogeneration plant

Abstract

This study aimed to analyse the evolution of the quality of different types of forest residues and wood waste used for energy generation in a cogeneration plant, located in the city of Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil. 4937 samples were analysed belonging to a database coming from a historical series, since the beginning of plant operation (2005–2015). The evaluated properties were moisture content, ash content and calorific value of the biomass. The results showed the there was a gradual and steady increase in the use biomass for energy generation in the study region. The three types of forest biomass purchased and used for energy generation in higher amounts in a cogeneration plant were the industrial chip, the bark and the sawdust. The mix analyses enabled the perception that there was an improvement in the quality of fuel supplied to company, evidenced by the decrease in moisture and ash content and consequent increase in the net calorific value (mean value 6612.84 kJ/kg). The moisture content of mix is also below (mean of 56.60%) the threshold value (60%) and it has been declining over the plant operation period, indicating progress in the processing and treatment of biomass for energy generation.