Addition of Eucalyptus sp wood to urban wood waste as a strategy for energetic use

This study analyzed the effect of adding Eucalyptus sp. wood to urban wood waste (UWW) as a strategy for improving the material for energy use. The UWW was collected at a recycling plant in the town of Piracicaba and the wood of Eucalyptus sp. came from a seven years old plantation. Five proportions (%) of WWU and eucalyptus wood were tested: T1 = 100/0, T2 = 75/25, T3 = 50/50, T4 = 25/75 and T5 = 0/100. Physical, chemical and immediate properties were evaluated. In addition the mineral contaminants content and the presence of heavy metals in the wood and in ashes of T1 and T5 were determined. The results showed lignin, fixed carbon and ash content higher in treatments with greater amounts of UWW. Heavy metals were detected in both treatments. T4 treatment stood out as the best strategy to the use of UWW, related to its energy potential combined with low ash content and lower contamination of minerals.