Use of Biomass as a Raw Material for Energy Production

The aim of this study is to describe the reasons why biomass constitutes raw material for energy production. The meaning of biomass is defined and it is explained why it is a potential source of energy. The utilization of biomass as an energy source is based on heat energy production during its combustion. The solar energy captured and stored by plants is released in the form of heat energy during the biomass combustion. The variables that affect the energy value (heating value) of forest biomass including the chemical composition, percentage of extractives, moisture content, ash content and density are reported. The calorific values of the various chemical components (cellulose, lignin, extractives), the various forest species (Softwoods, hardwoods) as well as the various parts of the same tree (wood, bark, foliage, branches) are declared as numerical data from the literature review. Softwoods generally contain more energy than hardwoods on a dry weight basis, due to higher lignin content plus the presence of more resinous extractives. Lastly, the advantages and disadvantages of biomass as an energy source are analyzed: biomass is renewable and eco-friendly, but its efficiency is low. However, this problem is gradually disappearing because of upward trends in oil prices and the atmospheric pollution which is caused by its combustion fact that increasingly encourage a wider use of biomass as an energy source.