Comparative analyses of fast growing species in different moisture content for high quality solid fuel production

Biomass is nowadays a very important alternative to energy consumption, since it provides less environmental harms. Briquettes come as an option since they include logistical and efficiency advantages. This study aimed to characterize Leucaena leucocephala (leucena) and Gonoacantha piptadenia (pau-jacare) biomass, to define their energy potential and verify the briquettes' moisture content and the mechanical resistance. Six treatments were provided: 2 species and three different moisture contents (10%, 12% and 15%). Fifteen briquettes were produced for each treatment. The results showed that moisture content changes the stability of the briquettes. The pau-jacare showed a better performance, in every aspect analyzed, superior chemical characteristics (ash content of 1.83%), higher heating value (18,956 kJ kg(-1)) and better mechanical resistance (0.5255 MPa). However, both species provided fine results toward this proposal. Therefore, they can be used in every moisture content tested here, offering satisfactory results for bioenergy. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.