Analysis of the Energy Parameters of Selected Biomass and Biochar Types and the Environmental Impact of Their Ashes

Abstract

The study determined the similarities and differences between the fuel properties of different types of biomass (triticale and oat straw; bark: oak, alder, hornbeam, pine) and biochar (municipal waste biochar, composting biochar, pellet biochar and Fluid’s biochar). Bulk and actual densities and moisture contents, ash amounts, elemental composition (C, H, N) were determined, and the calorific value, heat of combustion and porosity of the substances studied were calculated. In addition, the physico-chemical properties of the ashes were determined. All the substances tested have high energy potential and can be used as biofuel. Fluid’s biochar had the best energy properties due to the highest calorific value and heat of combustion, as well as carbon content, with a small amount of ash. Varying composition of the ashes obtained still poses a problem in developing methods for their management.