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In México, the utilization of fast-growing plant species for biomass production presents transportation-related issues such as freshness reduction, the transportation of large volumes with minimal weight due to low density, limited storage availability, and logistical challenges. To enhance understanding in this field, the research aimed to evaluate the densification potential of a variety of organic materials, with a specific emphasis on the biomass derived from eight species of rapidly growing plants, three animal species' manure, and concentrated feed. After conditioning, 100 g samples underwent particle size analysis and were categorized into seven sizes. Pellets and briquettes (40 g, 10% moisture, 15 MPa pressure, 5 min processing, 80 °C temperature) were produced and evaluated for bulk density (BD) and pellet (PD) and briquette durability (BDU). The predominant particle sizes were 0.850 mm and 0.425 mm. Original biomass bulk density (OBBD) varied notably, with ovine manure (0.50 g cm−3) and cattle feed (0.49 g cm−3) exhibiting the highest values. Caprine manure (0.83 g cm−3) and ovine manure (0.78 g cm−3) yielded the densest pellets at 1.76 and 1.84 g cm−3, respectively. Apple tree pellets achieved premium quality with the highest hardness (97.9%). Cattle manure (1.25 g cm−3) and cattle feed (1.25 g cm−3) had the densest briquettes, with notable BBD/OBBD ratios in pine sawdust (4.6) and corn (4.5). Caprine manure and Acacia biomass briquettes showed premium quality with the highest hardness (99.1%), emphasizing densification variations and the need for tailored approaches based on organic material characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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One viable option for meeting global energy demand is the creation of biofuels from plant species that demonstrate high biomass productivity and good energy characteristics. In this study, growth was evaluated using plant height (PH), the production of green (GB) and dry biomass (DB), and the energy quality of leaves, pods, and stems, considering apical and basal sections of maralfalfa plants at 28, 60, 90, and 140 days after applying a uniformity cut (AUC). The variables were analyzed with correlation tests and variance analyses (ANOVA) using a factorial array design; in addition, Tukey tests were performed. A steady increase in PH (72 to 239 cm) was found. The highest yield of stems was at 90 AUC (41,362 kg/ha) for GB and 140 days AUC (6331 kg/ha) for DB, and a high correlation was observed between PH and stem biomass production for both the GB (r = 0.91) and DB (r = 0.93). There was a strong correlation between higher heating value and DB from the apical stratum (r = 0.99) and the basal stratum (r = 0.97). Maralfalfa shows high biomass productivity and high energy production in short growth periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effects of pruning and fertilization on the growth of Pinus greggii plantations established at Durango state, Mexico. Design/methodology/approach: In a plantation (Durango), pruning was applied in three intensities (0, 50, and 75%) in a randomized complete block design. Four years later, the basal diameter (Db), normal diameter (ND), total plant height (PH), and stem height (SH) were evaluated. In another plantation (La Soledad), two pruning levels (0 and 50%) and foliar fertilization (with and without application) were applied in a completely randomized factorial design. Seven months later, Db, PH, and crown diameter (CD) were assessed. The analysis of their variance and means comparison test (Tukey, α0.05) were performed. Results: In Durango, pruning diminished the Db and PH, but increased the SH (p<0.01). In La Soledad, pruning also affected growth. The Db, PH, and CD were lower (p<0.01) when trees were pruned. Fertilization affected the PH (p<0.05) and CD (p<0.01) as well. The PH and the CD for both pruned and unpruned trees increased with fertilization. Limitations/implications: Pruning at 50 and 75% intensities are not suitable for P. greggii because it reduces their growth. Findings/conclusions: Fertilization favors the growth of P. greggii planted on low fertility soils for both pruned and unpruned trees, but the pruning and fertilization interaction should be examined in detail for a longer period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]