An integrated study on the viability of using slash for domestic energy in the form of briquettes.

Abstract

Once the particle size and moisture content of slash have been reduced to 3 mm and 10% respectively, it is possible to produce a well-structured briquette with a calorific value of 4,380 Cal/g. County Wicklow would be an ideal location for a briquetting plant, given its proximity to the large Dublin market and the consequent reduction in haulage costs. This assessment is also supported by the potential for realizing a sustained yield of approximately 75,000 m3 of slash per annum from surrounding forests. The cost of harvesting slash would vary between £6.17 and £11.48 per green tonne (gt), depending on site conditions and the harvesting system employed. However, the harmful impact on the forest site after removal, in terms of soil acidity and nutrient depletion, would mean that only the most fertile sites could be harvested for slash. This limiting factor, coupled with the high cost of manufacturing this type of briquette, probably prevents this new product from becoming a commercially viable enterprise in the short term.