Bioenergetic use of Araucaria angustifolia branches

The aim of this study was to physically, chemically and energetically characterize A. angustifolia branches of different dimensions and to compare them with the values described in literature. Thus, a total of 30 branches from 15 adult native trees were divided into three treatments according to the following base diameters: (S) less than 0.06 m, (M) between 0.06 and 0.10 m; and (L) greater than 0.10 m. A. angustifolia branches of all dimensions presented desirable bioenergetic characteristics with high calorific value, low ash content, volatile material content and adequate fixed carbon. Basic density was 470.18 kg m- 3, fixed carbon and volatile content showed a significant difference between L and S classes. Ash content was close to 1.0%. Gross calorific value showed an average of 4,743.3 kcal kg- 1. In comparison with the data found in the literature, A. angustifolia branches presented superior energetic qualities to several forest species woods traditionally used as bioenergy. The results obtained herein demonstrate the energetic potential of A. angustifolia branches for energy generation and encourage studies on this co-product as a profitable and ecological option as it does not need to cut the tree, and may contribute to species conservation.

Automated summary

This study characterized the physical, chemical, and energetic properties of A. angustifolia branches of different dimensions, showing their potential for energy generation. Compared to other forest species traditionally used for bioenergy, A. angustifolia branches demonstrated superior energetic qualities, making them a profitable and ecological option for energy production without the need to cut down trees, thus contributing to species conservation.