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Characterization of Melaleuca biomass as a fuel for direct combustion

Journal Article · · Wood Sci.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6981392

Selected properties of Melaleuca quinquenervia biomass were determined to evaluate its quality as a fuel. Ten trees were sampled from 2 areas (Lee and Dade Counties) in Florida. Test materials were sampled from: stem discs at 4 different heights; terminal branches; and foliage. Average heat values (cal/g) were 4400, 6160, 4610 and 4810 for wood and bark, terminal branches and foliage, respectively. Average densities (g/cubic centimeters) of wood and bark were 0.51 and 0.19 respectively. Average green m.c. was 114% for wood and 131% for bark, with maximum values of 178% and 265% respectively. Under the test conditions, average rate of moisture loss was 2.6% and 2.2% per day for wood samples in 3-cm cubes and 5-cm cubes, and 8.8% per day for 2X4X6-cm bark specimens (radial, tangential and longitudinal dimensions respectively).

Research Organization:
School of Forest Resources and Conservation, Univ. Florida, Gainsville, FL 32611, USA
OSTI ID:
6981392
Journal Information:
Wood Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Wood Sci.; (United States) Vol. 13:4; ISSN WOSCB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English