Effect of Tree Species on the Devolatilization of Oven-Dry Wood

Authors

  • Walter P. Walawender
  • Teresa K. Suazo
  • Wayne A. Geyer

Keywords:

Devolatilization, cottonwood, Kentucky coffeetree, red oak, honey locust, black locust, Osage-orange, ponderosa pine, eastern red cedar

Abstract

This study investigates the devolatilization of oven-dry wood chips from the branches and stems of six hardwood and two softwood tree species. Six hardwood species, covering a wide range of wood specific gravity were examined: cottonwood, Kentucky coffeetree, red oak, honey locust, black locust, and Osage-orange. The softwood species were ponderosa pine and eastern red cedar. Devolatilization curves (histories) along with the time for complete devolatilization (terminal time) and the corresponding terminal char yield were obtained from experiments with each tree species in a tubular furnace at 800°C. Graphical relationships were established between the terminal char yield and the ash content, and the terminal char yield and the wood specific gravity.

The results reveal that the terminal time and the terminal char yield are affected by tree species. An increasing trend between terminal char yield and wood specific gravity was roughly approximated.

References

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Published

2007-06-05

Issue

Number 2 / April 2003

Section

Research Contributions

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