Chemical composition and combustion properties of tropical wood species from Nigeria

Abstract

Ten different tropical wood species from Nigeria were collected and analyzed for bioenergy potential using their chemical compositions and thermal properties. The chemical compositions obtained were in accordance with those reported in literature, with ash levels from 4.73% to 7.33% and total extractibles ranging from 20.01% to 28.08%. Percentages of lignin obtained ranged from 27.37% to 28.89%, while the content of holocellulose ranged from 42.03% to 52.32%. Calorific values of the wood species were calculated using an elemental composition-based correlation equation, and values obtained ranged between 15.50 and 18.90MJ/kg. The fuel value index (FVI) values obtained for the sampled species revealed that acacia sp is the best species for use as fuelwood given its high calorific value and while Blighia sapida was found to be least suited for use as fuelwood.