Energy production of poplar clones and their energy use efficiency

Abstract

The poplar clones of Robusta and I-214 (Populus × euramericana) are characterized by fast growth and high quality biomass production. The calorific values for these poplar clones were determined, and modelling of calorific production of the entire poplar clone stands was performed. This research, dependent on age and site indexes, was conducted in four localities in Eastern Slovakia and seven in the western region of this country. Samples of bark, wood and small-wood with bark were excised from three tree stem areas and from two parts of the crown. No significant difference was observed between the two clones, with regard to either the biomass fraction or the location of the excised sample on the tree. The average calorific capacity of all biomass fractions was approximately 6.86-8.73 GJ m-3, with the lowest bark values emanating from the stem base. The mean annual calorific energy production for site indexes 40-20 after 17-26 years growth was 320-80 GJ ha-1 a-1, and this was calculable 2-3 years earlier in the I-214 clone than in Robusta. The energy use efficiency of these poplar clones was estimated at a maximum of 0.4-1.6% solar radiation utilization.

Keywords

• Biomass
• Calorific Value
• Energy Use Efficiency
• Poplar Clones
• Populus × euramericana