Bioenergetic Use of Araucaria Angustifolia Branches

The aim of this research was to characterize physically, chemically and energetically the branches of A. angustifolia of different dimensions and to compare them with the values ​​described in literature. Thirty branches from fifteen adult native trees were divided into three treatments, according to base diameter: (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 shown desirable bioenergetic characteristics, with high calorific value, low ash content, volatile material content and fixed carbon adequate. Basic density was 470.18 kg.m-3, fixed carbon and volatile content showed a significant difference between classes L and S. 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 energetic qualities superior to several woods forest species traditionally used as bioenergy. The results obtained here demonstrate the energetic potential of A. angustifolia branches for energy generation and encourage studies on this coproduct as a profitable and ecological option, as it does not need to cut the tree, and may contribute to conservation of specie