Influence of Corn Residue Harvest Management on Grain, Stover, and Energy Yields

摘要: Economic, environmental, and energy independence issues are contributing to rising fossil fuel prices, petroleum supply concerns, a growing interest in biomass feedstocks as renewable sources. Potential include perennial grasses, timber, annual grain crops with our focus being on corn (Zea mays L.) stover. A plot-scale study evaluating stover removal was initiated 2008 South Carolina Coastal Plain Coxville/Rains–Goldsboro–Lynchburg soil association site. In addition yields, carbon balance, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions quality impact reported elsewhere this issue, variation gross distribution within various plant fractions — whole plant, below ear shank (bottom), above (top), cob, well leaves stems of the bottom top portions (n(part, year) = 20) measured an isoperibol calorimeter. Stalks from were most dense, averaging 18.8 MJ/kg db, when combined other parts shank, entire half more dense than 18.4 versus 18.2 db. Gross content including averaged 18.28 ± 0.76 Over 4 years, partial total (i.e., 25 % 100 %) above-ground could between 30 168 GJ/ha depending upon rainfall. At GJ/ha, quantity (whole plant) available 3,254-km2 area (32 km radius) around site potentially support 500-MW power plant.