The search for efficient alternatives for energy production and distribution is an essential element for the human being, especially in today's society, where the modes of consumption are intensifying every day. Given this dependence on energy resources, there is a need to diversify the use of energy sources.
Currently, oil is the main substance used in energy generation, however, biomass is a source used long before the discovery of “black gold”. Man has used firewood as an energy source since the beginning of civilization. Therefore, biomass is part of human history as an energy source.
Biomass is a material made up mainly of substances of organic origin, that is, of animals and vegetables. Energy is obtained through the combustion of firewood, sugarcane bagasse, forest residues, agricultural residues, rice husks, animal excrement, among other organic materials.
This energy source is renewable, as its decomposition releases CO2 into the atmosphere, which, during its cycle, is transformed into carbohydrates through photosynthesis carried out by plants. In this sense, the use of biomass, as long as it is controlled, does not harm the environment, since the composition of the atmosphere is not significantly altered.
Among the main advantages of biomass are:
- Low operating cost;
- Easy storage and transport;
- Provides the reuse of waste;
- High energy efficiency;
- It is a renewable and clean energy source;
- Emits less polluting gases.
However, its use without proper planning can lead to the formation of large areas deforested by uncontrolled cutting of trees, loss of soil nutrients, erosion and excessive emission of gases.
The use of energy from biomass is of fundamental importance in the development of new energy alternatives. Its raw material is already used in the manufacture of various biofuels, such as bio-oil, BTL, biodiesel, biogas, etc.
By Wagner de Cerqueira and Francisco
Graduated in Geography
