Some aspects of Heracleum mantegazzianum biomass applicability for densified biofuels producing

Abstract

The invasion of giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum Sommier & Levier) is problematic for Europe due to the negative impact on biodiversity and risks to public health. When mechanical methods are used to eradicate this tall plant (with a height of up to 3 m), potentially useful biomass can be derived for solid biofuels production. This type of landscape residue management can be utilized in the same way as energy crops and agricultural residues usually used, i.e., as a material for biofuels in the forms of pellets and briquettes. The present study aimed to determine the initial moisture content of above-ground plant biomass at different periods. Some complications that can occur in biomass preparation for densification were briefly described, and it is pointed out that energy for drying will be required.