The objective of this study was to evaluate the profile of the thermal decomposition of the wood of eight species using thermogravimetry (TGA) techniques and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as well as the consistency of these methods to decide which species should be listed for production of energy and charcoal, comparing them with the carbonization gravimetric yield obtained from carbonization in laboratory muffle. For analysis by DSC and TGA, sawdust samples were heated at a rate of 10°C min-1 in nitrogen atmosphere, at a flow rate of 50 ml min-1 until final temperature of 600°C. The values of basic density and higher calorific value of the wood were determined. The carbonizations were conducted in laboratory muffle at a rate of 50 °C hour-1 to a maximum temperature of 450°C to give the charcoal yields. The values of coal apparent density from the eight species after carbonization were also determined. The results of the thermal analysis showed the profiles of pyrolytic decompoistion of the wood and evidenced those more stable to thermal action. The behavior of thermal stability of the wood of the eight species was confirmed by analysis of the yields of carbonization in muffle, compared to analysis by DSC and TGA. Woods of Aspidosperma pyrifolium and Mimosa tenuiflora showed higher thermal stability, thus higher yields in charcoal, as well as higher apparent densities. The thermogravimetry techniques and differential scanning calorimetry are satisfactory for evaluation of wood thermal decomposition and ensure consistency in the choice of woods that result in higher yields and higher quality charcoal.
Differential scanning calorimetry; Thermogravimetric analysis; Wood thermal stability
