Characteristic of thermochemical parameters of aboveground parts of selected sedges (Carex L. Cyperaceae)

Abstract

Sedges (Carex, Cyperaceae), among others, due to the similarity of the form of growth as well as morphological similarity to grasses fulfil many requirements expected from energetic raw materials. The main purpose of the performed experiments was: to analyse the chemical composition of over ground parts representing 9 sedge species, determine their heat of combustion and calorific value and, last but not least, to determine if and which of the examined sedge species can be treated as a potential source of energy. The investigation showed that only C. riparia was characterised by a low (17790 J/g) heat of combustion. The remaining species exhibited combustion heats ranging from 18 750 J/g to 19 740 J/g. The calorific value of all species-with the exception of C. riparia-was fairly similar and ranged from 17 310 kJ/kg to 18 010 kJ/kg. The highest calorific value (18 010 kJ/kg) was determined in C. acutiformis, while the lowest-in C. riparia (16 040 kJ/kg). The obtained research results confirmed that sedge swards can be treated as energetic raw material.