WP 2.4: Quality analysis of woody biomass

Wood density is a key parameter for both, mechanical properties and energy related characteristics (carbon content, calorific value, …). Due to significant correlations between wood density and various wood properties, it is used widely as an estimator of wood quality. High-frequency (HF) densitometry is a new method of non-destructive analysis of wood density. This innovative technique enables a high resolution detection of on inter- and intra-annual density variations of tree rings and wood surfaces. Within this working package radial and vertical density profiles of different Chinese tree species will be investigated.

Detecting correlations between wood density and wood parameters that influence its use (esp. calorific value, lignin-, cellulose content) with this method could allow determination of alternative uses at the beginning of the wood-supply-chain in the forest stand. Therefore in addition to density measurements some pelletizing experiments with Chinese wood will be carried out.

As wood density is a crucial variable in estimation and determination of woody biomass in forest stands this working package is working together closely with working package 1 (volume estimation with terrestrial laser scanner) in trying to develop new and innovative methods of determination of above ground biomass in Chinese forest stands.

The main objectives of this working package will be: 

• Development of an innovative and efficient method to detect biomass on stand and plantation level (together with WP1)
• Investigation of radial and vertical density profiles for Chinese tree species
• Based on this, it is aim to assess wood quality parameters, detect the amount of sequestrated carbon, predict calorific value and to give further recommendations for utilization