Consequence of SRF poplar wood harvesting method on energy content preservation

As renewable energy demand increases, SRF poplar cultivation is getting more and more important in energy production. SRF harvesting takes place normally between December and March: storage between April and November is therefore necessary, pointedly concerning the energetic quality of the material, that depends by harvesting method and the product dimensions. Today three different harvesting methods are available, turning out respectively whole plants, chunks and chips. Weather conditions and microbiological activities produce a dry matter reduction, hence energy loss. A measurement of the energy content of the SRF poplar cultivation was made during the harvesting. During the storage period were registered temperature, rainfall, humidity and solar radiation. Temperature inside the piles was also monitored at different heights. After the piles opening were measured moisture content, ash content, and heating. Whole trees and chunks have lower energy losses if compared with chips. On the other side, transport and following treatments, more difficult for the whole plants, will have an impact on the economy and energy balance of the productive chain. Both chips and chunks can constitute, in appropriate plants, the final form of fuel, while whole plants must always be processed..