Biomass waste as an alternative energy source in Asturias (Spain)

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential amounts of biomass resources that can be used to generate energy in Asturias, a region in Northern Spain. The biomass was characterised analysing the following parameters: moisture, ash content, organic matter content, elemental analysis (N, C, S and H) and calorific value. The biomass with the highest Lower Heating Value (LHV) on a wet basis is sawdust and splinter. Manure and sludge have a high content of ash (34-44% on a dry basis), compared with that of the MSW (27%) or with the very low value in the forest waste (1.5%). A very good correlation (R2 = 0.9817) is obtained between the LHV on a wet basis and the volatile solids content (also on a wet basis), determined at 850ºC.