Valorização energética de espécies suprimidas na implantação de um empreendimento eólico

Abstract

Given the growing wind potential, especially in the Northeast region and in state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN), there is a considerable growth of plant suppression, due to the installation of wind complexes. The present work seeks to present alternatives of energy recovery of species suppressed during the installation of a wind farm in the region of Mato Grande (RN), through energy characterization and rapid analytical pyrolysis. The quantitative biomass data that underpinned the work were provided by an environmental consulting company and for the energy characterization of the residues produced during the suppression of the native species of the Caatinga were performed the proximate analysis, calorific value, apparent density, thermogravimetric analysis and composition of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Fast analytical pyrolysis was developed at 500 °C in an HP-R 5200 pyrolysis from CDS Analytical coupled to a gas chromatograph to identify pyrolysis products. The calorific power results of pereiro, imburana and catingueira were 18.39 MJ/kg-1, 17.99 MJ/kg-1 and 17.47 MJ/kg-1, respectively, indicating its energy potential. The pyrolysis results prove the presence of several oxygenated compounds characteristic of the decomposition of lignocellulosic materials, such as phenols, ketone and light oxygenated compounds, containing between 1-4 carbon atoms, which comprise carboxylic acids. The materials have a high calorific value and can be applied for direct combustion, such as in the manufacture of briquettes and pellets. Pyrolysis results also reveal the potential to obtain renewable chemicals as an attractive product for several areas of industry, such as the production of paints, phenolic resins and pesticides. Futhermore by presenting in its composition a considerable amount of oxygenated compounds, such as ketones and phenols, it reveals its potential for the use of pyrolysis products in the chemical industry, as well as direct application of these biomasses in thermochemical processes of energy conversion.