Exploring integrated methodology for phytoremediation and biofuel production potential of Eichhornia crassipes

Eichhornia crassipes (EC) is a well-known invasive weed in different aquatic ecosystems. Its effective and complete eradication remains a challenge. The plant is a heavy metal (HM) hyperaccumulator in water bodies; however, studies regarding its biomass utilisation post-phytoremediation remain limited. The abundant growth rate and biochemical composition make EC a promising lignocellulosic feedstock for biofuel production; hence could be a deterministic approach for solving the twin problems of water pollution and higher energy demand, which are the global pressing issues in today’s scenario. The present study aimed at evaluating the phytoremediation potential of EC followed by proximate and biochemical analysis to investigate its suitability for biofuel production. After two weeks, the EC removed above 90% of Lead (Pb) and 60% of Cadmium (Cd) at all experimental doses. Lower doses of HMs, especially Pb, showed stimulatory effects on E. crassipes leaf biomass (ECLB). The recovered ECLB from Pb contaminated water (1 mg L?1) was further analysed for moisture (89.23±0.86%), dry matter (10.77±0.60%), ash (11.91±1.20%), organic carbon (51.56±1.08%), cellulose (21.89±0.64%), hemicellulose (26.50±1.13%), lignin (5.62±0.83%), total carbohydrate (32.00±1.58%), and protein (20.83±0.52%) content. SEM imaging of harvested ECLB confirmed compact and rigid structure. The recorded peaks in FTIR-spectra (1015.21, 1153.71, 1246.01, 1339.63, 1419.71, 1540.71, 1646.80, 1736.73, 2933.03, and 3263.72 cm?1) indicate the presence of lignocellulosic biomass. XRD peak at 21.55? confirmed the crystalline fraction of cellulose in ECLB. The results of theoretical yields of H2 and CH4 co-generation (HMG) (210.85 mLH2/g DW and 150.28 mL CH4/g DW) and Bioethanol (0.278 g/g DW) derived from cellulose and hemicellulose content of ECLB were comparable to those in reported studies. Overall, this work demonstrates an integrated methodology of phytoremediation followed by biofuel production from the recovered phytobiomass.

Productive characteristics of sunflower genotypes irrigated with different levels of saline water

Sunflower is suitable for family farmers from Northeast Brazil who are benefited by the production of grain and oil and is adequate for crop rotation and for honey production. The need for irrigation in this region leads to the realization of this study for evaluating the production components of four sunflower genotypes irrigated with different levels of water salinity. The study was carried out in the municipality of Remigio, Paraíba, Brazil, using a randomized block with split plots experimental design in a 5 x 4 factorial arrangement. Treatments consisted of five electrical conductivity levels of the irrigation water at 25 °C (L1 - 0.14 (reservoir water), L2 - 1.50, L3 - 2.50, L4 - 3.50, and L5 - 4.50 dS m- 1), and four sunflower genotypes (C1 - Embrapa 122-V2000, C2 - Olisun 03, C3 - AG 963, and C4 - Multissol) with three replicates. The irrigation water salinity levels tested did not influence the variables studied. Different values of the variables among sunflower genotypes were due to characteristics inherent to each genotype. Sunflower genotype Olisun 03 presented the highest oil content, while the lowest content was observed in Multissol.

Regional concentration of native fuelwood production in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil (1990­2017) / Concentração regional da produção de lenha nativa no Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil (1990-2017)

This paper examined the regional concentration of native fuelwood production in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, between 1990-2017. Information on native fuelwood was gathered from forestry activities collected by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). This study analyzed the current situation and the spatial distribution of the state's fuelwood production by quartiles. The following indicators were used to measure market concentration: Gini Coefficient (G), Comprehensive Concentration Index (CCI), Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and Concentration Ratio [CR(k)]. In Rio Grande do Norte, there was a -2.76% annual decrease in the production of native fuelwood, from 5,280 x10³ m³ (1990) to 777 x10³ m³ (2017). Classification of the municipalities by quartile revealed that most municipalities had low fuelwood production. The G inferred a very strong to absolute inequality for the municipalities and a weak to null inequality for the mesoregions.The CCI demonstrated no market concentration in the municipalities and a regional concentration in the mesoregions. The HHI corroborated the CCI by affirming the presence of a competitive market for the municipalities and microregions and a concentrated market in the mesoregions.The CR(k) of the four largest municipalities indicated a moderately low concentration. This study concluded that there is a competitive market structure for native fuelwood inthe state of Rio Grande do Norte.

Este artigo analisou a concentração regional da produção de lenha nativa do Rio Grande do Norte - Brasil, no período de 1990 a 2017. As informações da lenha nativa foram obtidas da produção da extração vegetal e da silvicultura, disponíveis no Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). Analisou a conjuntura, a distribuição espacial da produção de lenha estadual por meio os quartis e mensurou a concentração por meio dos indicadores: Coeficiente de Gini (G), Índice de Concentração Compreensiva (CCI), Índice de Herfindahl-Hirschman (HHI) e Razão de Concentração [CR(k)]. Os resultados mostraram que houve decréscimo de -2,76% a.a. na produção de lenha nativa estadual, partindo de 5.280 x10³ m³ (1990) para 777 x10³ m³ (2017). O quartil municipal revelou que a maioria dos municípios produz pouca lenha; apesar do G ter inferido uma desigualdade muito forte a absoluta para os municípios produtores de lenha e fraca a nula para as mesorregiões, já o CCI mostrou para os municípios que é não concentrado e as mesorregiões tem concentração regional; HHI corroborou com esta afirmação mostrando um mercado altamente competitivo para os municípios e microrregiões e concentrado para as mesorregiões produtoras de lenha; o CR(k) dos quatro maiores municípios foi constatada uma concentração moderadamente baixa. Conclui-se que a lenha nativa do estado do Rio Grande do Norte possui estrutura de mercado competitiva.

Gerenciamento de resíduos sólidos orgânicos do Consórcio do Maciço de Baturité: Análise técnica e econômica da geração de biogás por aterro sanitário e usina de digestão anaeróbia / Management of solid organic waste of the Baturité Massif Consortium: a technical and economic analysis of biogas generation from a landfill and an anaerobic digestion plant

RESUMO Os sistemas de recuperação de biogás contribuem para a mitigação de gases do efeito estufa, além de agregarem valor econômico ao processo de decomposição anaeróbia da matéria orgânica. O presente trabalho busca analisar os potenciais energéticos e a viabilidade econômica de implementação de um sistema de recuperação de biogás de aterro sanitário (cenário 1) ou de uma usina de digestão anaeróbia (cenário 2) para o Consórcio do Maciço de Baturité no estado do Ceará, Brasil. Para isso, foi estimada a projeção populacional, seguida da estimativa da produção de biogás pelo software LandGEM. Para o sistema de recuperação de biogás do aterro sanitário, foi obtida a potência ótima de 460 kW, com geração de energia máxima de 3.223.680 kWh/ano, enquanto, para a usina de digestão anaeróbia, foram obtidos valores de potência e energia de 252 kW e 1.986.754,86 kWh, respectivamente. De acordo com a análise econômica, ambos os projetos possuem inviabilidade de implementação, todavia o preço da unidade de energia gerada (kWh) é 42,42% maior para a usina de digestão anaeróbia em relação ao do sistema de recuperação de biogás do aterro sanitário. A metodologia aplicada pode ser utilizada para estudos preliminares em outros tipos de consórcio, contribuindo para melhores gerenciamento de resíduos e aproveitamento energético de sistemas de biogás no país.

ABSTRACT Biogas recovery systems contribute to the mitigation of greenhouse gases, besides adding economic value to the anaerobic decomposition of organic matter. This research aims to analyze the energy potentials and economic feasibility of implementing a landfill biogas recovery system (scenario 1) and an anaerobic digestion plant (scenario 2) for the Baturité Massif Consortium in the state of Ceará, Brazil. To that end, a population projection followed by an estimate of biogas production were made using the LandGEM software. For the biogas recovery system of the landfill, an optimum power of 460 kW and a maximum energy generation of 3,223,680 kWh/yr were obtained, whereas the anaerobic digestion plant resulted a power and energy of 252 kW and 1,986,754.86 kWh respectively. According to the economic analysis, both projects are unfeasible, but the price of the energy unit generated (kWh) is 42.42% higher for the anaerobic digestion plant than for the biogas recovery system of the landfill. The methodology applied can be used for preliminary studies in other consortiums, contributing to a better waste management and energy use of biogas systems in the country.

Sweet sorghum: broth clarification with enzymatic treatment increases the quality of the fermentation wort for ethanol production

Sweet sorghum is currently being evaluated throughout the world as a raw material for biofuel production because its stem juices are rich in sugars that can be directly fermented to ethanol. In this work, the fermentative efficiency of three sweet sorghum genotypes was evaluated, aiming at ethanol production, harvested in two seasons, clean and whole stems, and the treatment of the juice and broth with amylolytic enzymes in order to use the present starch to increase the production of ethanol. The experiment was carried out in the 2013/2014 harvest, in the municipality of Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brasil, located at 21°14'05''S and 48°17'09''W. The experimental design was completely randomized, with sub-subdivided plots and four replications. The primary treatments were the sweet sorghum genotypes (CV147, CV198, and BRS508), the secondary treatments, the type of harvest (whole stems and clean stems); the tertiary the two sampling times (102 and 116 days after sowing - d.a.s) and the quaternary the application of enzymes. In the fermentation process, the yeast PE-2 was used, at the end, the wine was recovered and characterized. Fermentation efficiency and liters of ethanol per ton of sorghum were calculated. The clarification of the juice with enzymatic treatment increases the quality of the fermentation broth and makes it possible to obtain wines with lower levels of RRTs and Brix. Fermentation efficiency is not affected by the genotype; however, it is influenced by the time of harvest and the technological quality of the juice. The use of amylolytic enzymes makes it possible to obtain wines with lower levels of RRTS and Brix. The best period of industrialization was at 102 d.a.s., and the processing of whole stalks resulted in less ethanol production.

Status quo of global bioindustry and its policy implications / 生物工程学报

The advent of the bioeconomy era is triggers a new wave of technology and industrial revolution. Bioeconomy has become the commanding heights that major developed countries and emerging economies try to seize. This paper analyzes the spatiotemporal characteristics of global bioindustry development from four perspectives: biomedical industry, genetically modified crop planting industry, bioenergy industry, and bio-based chemical industry. Then it summarizes the main characteristics of the development of the global bioindustry, and further put forward policy recommendations for the bottleneck problems in the development of China's bioindustry, which can guide the future development of China's bioeconomy.

Assessment and empirical analysis of the competitiveness of bioindustry in various regions of China / 生物工程学报

The era of bioeconomy has ushered in a new wave of technological and industrial revolution for mankind. The strategic deployment for the bioindustry in China has achieved remarkable results. However, there are still problems such as unbalanced regional development in the process of bioindustry development. In order to comprehensively assess the current situation of the competitiveness of the bioindustry in various regions of China, the assessment indicator system of the overall competitiveness of the bioindustry is constructed from the perspective of the four sub-industries of biomedicine, bioenergy, bioagriculture and bio-based industry. The weight of each assessment indicator is determined by the analytic hierarchy process. According to geographical administrative division and regional economic relations, an empirical analysis of the comprehensive competitiveness score of the bioindustry in seven regions of China is carried out. The assessment results show that the competition of bioindustry in various regions of China presents a gradient distribution in space. In view of this, relevant policy recommendations are put forward from four aspects: (1) implementing the strategy of rural revitalization, (2) implementing the strategy of regional coordinated development, (3) deepening the supply-side structural reform for the bioindustry, and (4) establishing regional unified information collaboration network system.

Supervivencia y características de rebrotes en tocones de dos años de cultivos dendroenergéticos / Survival rates and characteristics of spreads in two years stumps of crops with dendroenergy potential

Resumen Varias especies de los géneros Eucalyptus y Acacia son adecuadas para la producción de biomasa útil en la generación de energía. El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la supervivencia y características del rebrote en tocones de cuatro especies dendroenergéticas en tres diferentes densidades poblacionales. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques completos al azar con tres repeticiones, en tres sitios (Parcelas Collipulli, La Aguada y Pilpilco Abajo) con características edafoclimáticas contrastantes. Se estudió Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus denticulata, Eucalyptus nitens y Acacia dealbata en tres densidades de plantación (5 000 árboles/ ha; 10 000 árboles/ha y 15 000 árboles/ha). Se evaluó el porcentaje de supervivencia y las características del rebrote por tocón. Las variables especie, densidad de plantación y sitio de siembra afectaron los parámetros analizados. La densidad de plantación afectó el diámetro y altura de los rebrotes dominantes de tipo proventicio en las cuatro especies estudiadas. La mayor tasa de supervivencia de tocones (97 %), la presentó Eucalyptus nitens en Pipilco Abajo, con 79 % de supervivencia de rebrotes a una densidad de 5 000 árboles/ha. Sin embargo, en densidades de 15 000 árboles/ha, la supervivencia de rebrote fue de 29 %. Acacia dealbata es una especie reconocida por su capacidad de colonización, sin embargo, en La Aguada, con densidades de siembra de 5 000 árboles/ha y 10 000 árboles/ha, mostró baja tasa de supervivencia de tocones (19 % y 18 %, respectivamente) y de rebrotes (57 % y 63 %, respectivamente). La especie Eucalyptus globulus mostró altas tasas de supervivencia de tocones y rebrotes en todos los sitios evaluados, por lo que puede ser considerada como una buena opción para optimizar el sistema de monte bajo.

Abstract Several species of the genera Eucalyptus and Acacia are suitable for biomass production useful in energy generation. The objective of this research was to evaluate the survival and chaof four dendroenergetic species in three population densities. A randomized block design with three replications was used in three sites (Collipulli, La Aguada and Pilpilco Abajo plots) with contrasting edaphoclimatic characteristics. Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus denticulata, Eucalyptus nitens and Acacia dealbata were studied in three plantation densities (5 000 trees/ha, 10 000 trees/ha and 15 000 trees/ha). The survival percentage and characteristics of stump regrowth characteristics of each stump were evaluated. The variables specie, plantation density and planting site affected the analyzed parameters. Plantation density affected the diameter and height of prevalent sprouts of proventic proventitious shoots in all species. Hihest stump survival rate (97 %) was presented by Eucalyptus nitens in Pipilco Abajo, with 79 % shoots survival of sprouts at a density of 5 000 trees/ha. However, at densities of 15 000 trees/ ha, regrowth survival was 29%. The Acacia dealbata is a species characterized by its colonization capacity. However, at La Aguada, which had population densities of 5 000 trees/ha and 10 000 trees/ha, it showed a low stump (19% and 18 % respectively) and shoots (57 % and 63 % respectively) survival rate. The species Eucalyptus globulus showed high stump and shoot survival rates in all sites evaluated, therefore it can be considered a good option to optimize the scrub system.

Functional Screening of Electrogenicity and Bioelectricity Generation Potentials among Water-Borne Microbial Isolates

Aim: To assess natural electrogenicity and bioelectricity generation potentials of microbial isolates from water sites in Nigeria Study Design: Sampling of various water sites and microbial isolation for subsequent electrogenic characterization of isolates and bioelectricity generation Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria between January 2014 to June 2015. Methodology: Various water sites in Nigeria were assessed, and samples collected. Isolation and identification of bacteria and yeasts were carried out using standard techniques. Electrogenic screening of pure culture using Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) measurements in biolelectrochemical reactors and Cyclic Voltammetry were carried out. Bioelectricity generation measurements using multimeters and calculations of Voltage, Current, Power and Coulombic efficiency in Open and Closed circuit systems were calculated. Results: A total of 362 microorganisms (254 bacteria; 108 yeasts) were isolated and screened for electrogenicity. Samples from a River Benue site in Yola, Nigeria harboured the highest number of electrogenic isolates among all sites assessed. Sixty-five microorganisms elicited electrogenicity out of which 47 were bacteria and 18 were yeasts. Based on their electrogenic potentials, 7 of the most efficient isolates with electrogenic voltages >500 mV were further selected, and molecularly identified by 16S rRNA and ITS region gene analyses as Pseudomonas aeruginosa A4 (KX397030), Pseudomonas aeruginosa B3 (KX397029), Enterobacter aerogenes 102 (KX397032), Pseudomonas sp. B1 (KX397031), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 104, Bacillus cereus 101 (KX397028) and Pichia kudriavzevii 103 (KX397033). Cyclic voltammetry carried out on the isolates confirmed their electroactivity in comparison with a non-electrogenic Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 strain. Bioelectricity generation experiments showed that P. aeruginosa A4 was the most electrogenic strain, eliciting the highest current of 86.37 ± 14.52 mA/m2. The least current was observed for the Pichia kudriavzevii 103 strain (19.22 ± 9.02 mA/m2). Conclusion: All isolates proved to be good electrogens and efficient candidates for optimising bioelectricity production.

Advances in Implantable Medical Device Battery / 中国医疗器械杂志

In recent years, active implantable medical devices become a hot spot of the medical device industry. There are still many problems in terms of reliability, capacity and life expectancy because of the subject to material and technical constraints. This review summarizes the development history and current status of the batteries used in active implantable medical devices, and describes the development and problems of zinc-mercury batteries and lithium batteries. The flexible batteries and bio-energy battery and other new battery technology are also expounded. The future of active implanted medical device battery is bound to miniaturization, flexibility, rechargeable direction.

Bacteria in super capacitor electrode materials: a review / 生物工程学报

As a major factor in determining performances of the electrochemical super capacitor, electrode materials have received wide attentions recently. Bacteria, with their advantages of low cost, abundance, environmental protection and easy to get from nature, have become the promising biomaterials. The composite electrode materials based on bacteria or their related products, have the advantages of large specific surface area, good cycle stability and high capacitance, and become the research focus in the field of super capacitor electrode materials. Herein, the characteristics and related technology of different bacteria on the preparation of electrode materials for super capacitor were summarized. This review systematically elaborates the latest research progress of bacterial composite electrode materials. Moreover, the prospect of super capacitors has been discussed.

Bioenergetics potential of RR2 PRO transgenic soybean subjected to application of herbicides isolated and in combination

ABSTRACT In Brazil, there are several crops producing oil for biofuel production, such as canola, sunflower, peanut, cotton, castor bean, soybean, among others. There are parameters that indicate the energetic and economic viability for the production of biofuels, and that can be applied, for example, in transgenic soybeans. The present study aimed to evaluate the energetic viability of Intacta RR2 PROTM soybean for biofuel production.Experiments were conducted in the municipalities of Palotina and Marechal Cândido Rondon, both in the State of Paraná. Energy balance calculations were carried out from the production system, estimating energy expenditure, including the agricultural and industrial stages. The inputs used were considered as input of energy, while grain production, as output of energy. The energy balance of soybean biofuel showed positive values in the treatments with lower doses up to the recommended doses, highlighting the treatment glyphosate at 720 g.e.a. per hectare, which reached a positive energy balance (1: 1.11) for both municipalities. However, the Intacta RR2 PRO TM soybean was sensitive to treatments with high doses of glyphosate, which impaired productivity and consequently generated low economic returns.

Silvopastoral System Economical and Financial feasibility with Jatropha curcas L. in Manabí, Ecuador / Viabilidad económica y financiera de sistemas silvopastoriles con Jatropha curcas L. en Manabí, Ecuador

ABSTRACT Objective. To assess the economic and financial feasibility of traditional silvopastoral systems for the biofuels production as a contribution to the sustainability of "Piñón for Galapagos" project. Materials and methods. A survey was conducted to 450 small livestock producer in 10 cantons of the Manabí province in order to collect basic agronomic knowledge, management, establishment and costs involved in production of the Piñón ((Jatropha curcas L.)/Savoy (Megathyrsus maximus) silvopastoral systems. For Piñón CP041 production recording plantation in live fence were stablished and for the tradition Piñón, the production of 10 sites were recorded, both systems since 2009. With those data were calculated the following economic indicators: ratio benefit/cost, net present value (NPV), internal rate ratio (IRR) and land expectation value (LEV). Results. The study exhibited a production decrease of Piñón with the passage of time. The CP041 INIAP improved silvopastoral system Piñón showed a B/C 1.07, NPV of USD$ 404.11, LEV US$ 970.23 and IRR of 18%. Followed by silvopastoral system with a local Piñón with a B/C 1.06, NPV of USD$ 363.66, LEV USD$ 873.10 and IRR of 17% and finally silvopastoral system without harvesting Piñón with a B/C 1.05, NPV of USD$ 285.72, LEV USD$ 685.99 and IRR of 15%. Conclusions. The alternative biofuels production was the silvopastoral systems (INIAP CP041)/Savoya in Manabí and is economically feasible. This system does not compete for arable land for food production and would not affect food security.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Evaluar la viabilidad económica y financiera de los sistemas silvopastoriles tradicionales para la producción de Biocombustibles como aporte a la sostenibilidad del proyecto "Piñón para Galápagos". Materiales y Métodos. Se llevaron a cabo encuestas a 450 pequeños productores ganaderos de 10 cantones de la provincia de Manabí con la finalidad de colectar información agronómica, manejo, costos implicados en establecimiento y producción de los sistemas silvopastoriles vigentes de Piñón (Jatropha curcas L.)/Saboya (Megathyrsus maximus). Para recopilar datos de producción del Piñón establecido en cercas vivas de Piñón INIAP CP041 e igualmente se registró la producción de sistemas en 10 sitios, desde el año 2009. Con estos datos se calcularon los siguientes indicadores financieros radio beneficio/costo (B/C), valor actual neto (VAN), tasa interna de retorno (TIR) y valor de expectativa de la tierra (VET). Resultados. El estudio mostró una disminución de la producción del Piñón con el transcurso del tiempo. El sistema silvopastoril mejorado con Piñón INIAP CP041 mostró B/C 1.07, VAN de USD$ 404.11, VET USD$ 970.23 y TIR de 18%. Seguido del sistema silvopastoril con Piñón local con un B/C 1.06, VAN de USD$ 363.66, VET USD$ 873.10 y TIR de 17% y finalmente sistema silvopastoril sin cosecha del Piñón con un B/C 1.05, VAN de USD$ 285.72, VET USD$ 685.99 y TIR de 15%. Conclusiones. La alternativa de producción de biocombustibles con sistemas silvopastoriles Piñón (INIAP CP041)/Saboya en Manabí es el sistema de mayor rentabilidad y no competiría por superficies de cultivo para la producción de alimentos, sin afectar a la seguridad alimentaria.

Preemergence herbicides on weed control in elephant grass pasture / Controle de plantas daninhas em pastagem de capim-elefante com herbicidas pré-emergentes

ABSTRACT Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) is an important forage crop that has been proposed as a potential feedstock for bioenergy production. However, weed interference is a major factor limiting elephant grass production. Field experiments were conducted in 2014 and 2015 to evaluate preemergence herbicides for selective weed control in an elephant grass pasture. Herbicide treatments included atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, diuron + hexazinone, sulfentrazone, imazethapyr, and atrazine at label use rates. Weedy and weed-free treatments were included. Atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone, and atrazine did not cause phytotoxicity on elephantgrass 35 days after treatment (DAT). However, diuron + hexazinone and imazethapyr were the most phytotoxic on elephantgrass, resulting in 81 and 70% phytotoxicity in 2014, and 7 and 6% phytotoxicity in 2015 respectively 35 DAT. All treatments provided effective weed control (>81%) with the exception of ethoxysulfuron (0 and 11% in 2014 and 2015, respectively), and atrazine (59% in 2014). These results show that atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone, and atrazine were selectives when applied in preemergence in elephant grass pasture.

RESUMO O capim-elefante (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) é uma planta forrageira importante que tem sido proposta como matéria-prima potencial para a produção de bioenergia. No entanto, a interferência das plantas daninhas é um fator limitante na produção do capim-elefante. Experimentos de campo foram realizados em 2014 e 2015 para avaliar herbicidas aplicados em condições de pré-emergência para o controle seletivo de plantas daninhas em pastagem de capim-elefante. Os tratamentos herbicidas incluíram atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, diuron + hexazinone, sulfentrazone, imazethapyr e atrazine em doses normalmente recomendadas no rótulo. Foram incluídas as testemunhas sem capina e capinadas. Atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone e atrazine não causaram fitotoxicidade em capim-elefante aos 35 dias após os tratamentos (DAT). No entanto, diuron + hexazinone e imazethapyr foram os mais fitotóxicos ao capim-elefante, resultando em 81 e 70% de fitotoxicidade em 2014, e 7 e 6% em 2015, aos 35 DAT, respectivamente. Todos os tratamentos de controle de plantas daninhas foram eficazes (> 81%) com a exceção de ethoxysulfuron (0 e 11%, em 2014 e 2015, respectivamente) e atrazine (59%, em 2014). Estes resultados mostram que os herbicidas atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone e atrazine foram seletivos quando aplicados em pré-emergência em pastagem de capim-elefante.

Deterioration and fermentability of energy cane juice / Deterioração e fermentabilidade do caldo de cana energia

ABSTRACT: The main interest in the energy cane is the bioenergy production from the bagasse. The juice obtained after the cane milling may constitute a feedstock for the first-generation ethanol units; however, little attention has been dedicated to this issue. In order to verify the feasibility of the energy cane juice as substrate for ethanol production, the objectives of this research were first to determine the microbiological characteristics and deterioration along the time of the juices from two clones of energy cane (Type I) and second, their fermentability as feedstock for utilization in ethanol distilleries. There was a clear differentiation in the bacterial and yeast development of the sugarcane juices assayed, being much faster in the energy canes than in sugarcane. The storage of juice for 8 hours at 30oC did not cause impact in alcoholic fermentation for any sample analyzed, although a significant bacterial growth was detected in this period. A decrease of approximately seven percentage points in the fermentative efficiency was observed for energy cane juice in relation to sugarcane in a 24-hour fermentation cycle with the baking yeast. Despite the faster deterioration, the present research demonstrated that the energy cane juice has potential to be used as feedstock in ethanol-producing industries. As far as we know, it is the first research to deal with the characteristics of deterioration and fermentability of energy cane juices.

RESUMO: O principal interesse na cana energia reside na produção de bioenergia a partir do bagaço. O caldo obtido após a moagem da cana pode se constituir em substrato para as unidades de produção de etanol de primeira geração, no entanto, pouca atenção tem sido dispensada a esta questão. O presente trabalho avaliou o caldo de cana energia obtido de dois clones Tipo I como substrato para a produção de etanol, com base na determinação das suas características microbiológicas e deterioração ao longo do tempo, em comparação com o caldo de cana-de-açúcar (variedade RB867515). Foi observada uma clara diferenciação quanto ao crescimento bacteriano e de leveduras nas amostras de caldo analisadas, sendo o crescimento mais rápido no caldo de cana energia que no caldo de cana-de-açúcar. A manutenção do caldo por 8 horas a 30oC não causou impacto sobre a fermentação etanólica para quaisquer das amostras analisadas, apesar do crescimento significativo de bactérias. Houve um decréscimo de aproximadamente sete pontos percentuais na eficiência da fermentação com caldo de cana energia em um ciclo fermentativo de 24 horas com a levedura da panificação, em relação ao caldo da cana-de-açúcar. Apesar de a deterioração do caldo da cana energia ter sido mais rápida que a apresentada pelo caldo de cana-de-açúcar, o presente trabalho demonstrou que o caldo de cana energia tem potencial para ser utilizado como substrato nas indústrias produtoras de etanol. Do que se tem conhecimento, esse é o primeiro trabalho que trata das características de deterioração e fermentabilidade do caldo de cana energia.

Production and characterization of bamboo pellets / Produção e caracterização de pellets de bambu

Agroforestry biomass is a great energy alternative, with potential to produce pellets and briquettes. The objective of this study was to assess the potential of using the biomass of bamboo species to produce pellets. Mature culms of the species Bambusa vulgaris var. Vitatta, Dendrocalamus asper and Bambusa tuldoides were used, in addition to wood discs of 6 year-old hybrids of E. urophylla x E. grandis for comparative purposes. Biomass was characterized by the bulk density, proximate analysis, calorific value and energy density. Pellets were characterized (moisture content, length, diameter, durability, bulk, apparent and energy density) after production. All the characteristics of bamboo and eucalyptus pellets met the quality specifications required in international product marketing standards, except for the ash levels. The species Bambusa vulgaris var. vitatta, Dendrocalamus asper and Bambusa tuldoides had energy characteristics that indicate its potential for being used as an energy source in the form of pellets.

A biomassa agroflorestal é uma ótima alternativa energética, com potencial para produzir pellets e briquetes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o potencial de uso da biomassa de espécies de bambu para produzir pelotas. Colmos maduros da espécie Bambusa vulgaris var. Vitatta, Dendrocalamus asper e Bambusa tuldoides foram utilizado, além de discos de madeira de híbridos de E. urophylla x E. grandis de 6 anos para fins comparativos. A biomassa foi caracterizado pela densidade a granel, análise aproximada, valor calorífico e densidade de energia. Pellets foram caracterizados (teor de umidade, comprimento, diâmetro, durabilidade, volume, aparente e densidade de energia) após a produção. Todas as características de pelotas de bambu e eucalipto atendem às especificações de qualidade exigidas pelas normas internacionais de comercialização de produtos, com exceção dos níveis de cinza. As espécies Bambusa vulgaris var. vitatta, Dendrocalamus asper e Bambusa tuldoides tinham características energéticas que indicam o seu potencial para ser utilizado como fonte de energia na forma de pellets.

Plant population and row spacing on biomass sorghum yield performance / Espaçamento entrelinhas e população de plantas no desempenho produtivo do sorgo biomassa

ABSTRACT: Biomass sorghum is one of the most promising crops for the production of electricity through the burning in high-pressure boilers, due to its high calorific value, high yield, seed propagation, short cycle, and to the possibility of full mechanization of its agricultural processes. However, there is still a lack of information about its cultural practices. To this end, this research aimed to evaluate the influence of row spacing and plant population on the yield performance of biomass sorghum. The experimental design was a randomized block, in factorial scheme of 4 x 4, with four row spacings (0.5, 0.7, 0.9 and 1.1m), and four plant populations (80,000; 100,000; 120,000 and 140,000 plants ha-1), with three replications. The characteristics evaluated were: plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, number of tillers per plant, fresh weight per plant and biomass. Total biomass yield was greatly influenced by the row spacing, showing a sharp reduction when row spacing increased, in the two years of study, changing from 180.27 to 114.42t ha-1 in the 2012/13 crop year, and from 146.50 to 102.56t ha-1 in the 2013/14 crop year, for 0.5 and 1.1m between rows, respectively. The lowest yields observed in the second year of the study were due to unfavorable weather conditions in the period.

RESUMO: O sorgo biomassa é uma das culturas mais promissoras para a produção de energia elétrica, através da queima da planta inteira em caldeiras de alta pressão, devido ao seu alto poder calorífico, alta produtividade, propagação por sementes, ciclo curto e por possibilitar mecanização completa de seus processos agrícolas. Contudo, ainda há uma carência de informações acerca do seu manejo cultural. Para tanto, esta pesquisa objetivou avaliar a influência do espaçamento entrelinhas e da população de plantas no desempenho produtivo do sorgo biomassa. Os experimentos foram instalados em Sete Lagoas/MG, na Embrapa Milho e Sorgo, durante duas safras consecutivas. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 4 x 4, sendo 4 espaçamentos entrelinhas (0,5; 0,7; 0,9 e 1,1m) e 4 populações de plantas (80.000; 100.000; 120.000 e 140.000 plantas ha-1) e utilizadas três repetições. As características avaliadas foram: altura da planta, diâmetro do colmo, número de folhas, número de perfilhos por planta, massa fresca por planta e biomassa total por área cultivada. A produtividade de biomassa total foi influenciada pelo espaçamento entrelinhas, apresentando uma forte redução com o aumento do espaçamento entrelinhas para os dois anos de estudos, passando de 180,27 para 114,42t ha-1, na safra 2012/13, e de 146,50 para 102,56t ha-1, na safra 2013/14, para espaçamentos entrelinhas de 0,5 e 1,1m, respectivamente. As menores produtividades observadas no segundo ano de estudo foram devido às condições climáticas desfavoráveis no período.

Progress on cellulosic ethanol produced from beet pulp / 生物工程学报

Cellulosic ethanol, with the advantages of renewable resource, cleanliness and safety, is the mainstream of new energy development and has obtained extensive attention worldwide. In this review, the biological characteristics of beets were introduced, and then the superiority and application progress of beets and its by-product sugar beet pulp in the bioethanol production were stated. At last, cellulosic ethanol production coupled with the component separation and comprehensive utilization of beet pulp was proposed.

Caracterização de fungos isolados da região Amazônica quanto ao potencial para produção das enzimas envolvidas na conversão da biomassa vegetal / Characterization of fungi isolated from the Amazon region for the potential of biomass-degrading enzymes production

A conversão da biomassa vegetal proveniente de resíduos agroindustriais e florestais em biocombustíveis e bioprodutos, dentro do conceito de biorrefinarias, é de grande interesse, principalmente para o Brasil, onde a agroenergia possui um enorme potencial de desenvolvimento. Entretanto, para garantir a viabilidade do processo de conversão, é fundamental reduzir o custo das enzimas utilizadas na etapa de hidrólise. Para isso, deve-se dispor da peça chave deste processo, que é o microrganismo. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar fungos isolados da região Amazônica em relação ao potencial de produção das enzimas celulases e xilanases. De um total de 40 isolados cultivados por fermentação em estado sólido (FES), durante 10 dias, os fungos que se destacaram quanto à produção de endoglucanase (351,79Ug^-1 em 120h) e β-glicosidase (62,31Ug^-1em 72h) foi o P47C3 (A. niger), e na produção de xilanase (1076,94Ug^-1 em 72h) e FPase (2,46Ug^-1 em 120h) foram o P6B2 (A. oryzae) e o P40B3, respectivamente. Os resultados obtidos demonstram o enorme potencial de aplicação das enzimas produzidas pelos fungos isolados da Amazônia, contribuindo, assim, para gerar os avanços tecnológicos necessários para o aumento da eficiência do uso da biomassa vegetal como fonte de energia renovável

The conversion of biomass from forestry and agroindustrial residues into biofuels and bioproducts, within the biorefinery concept, is of great interest, especially to Brazil, where bioenergy has a huge potential for development. However, to ensure the viability of the conversion process it is essential to reduce the cost of the enzymes used in the hydrolysis step. For this, one must have the key element of this process, which is the microorganism. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate different fungi isolated from the Amazon region for their potential in terms of the production of cellulase and xylanase enzymes. Of a total of 40 strains cultivated under solid state fermentation (SSF) for 10 days, the strain that stood out for the production of endoglucanase (351.79Ug-1120h) and β-glucosidase (62.31Ug-1 at 72h) was P47C3 (A. niger) whereas for xylanase (1076.94Ug-1 in 72 hours) and FPase (2.46Ug-1 in120 hours) were P6B2 (A. oryzae) and P40B3, respectively. These results demonstrate the great potential application of the enzymes produced by the Amazon isolated fungi, thus contributing to generate the necessary technological advances in order to increase the efficiency of the use of biomass as a renewable energy source.

Methodological alternatives in the estimate of biomass for young individuals of Bambusa spp / Alternativas metodológicas para estimativa de biomassa de indivíduos jovens de Bambusa spp

The objective of this work was to evaluate the distribution of biomass in compartments, as well as to test and select methods to estimate total biomass for species of Bambusa. For the test of the methods were evaluated: method of estimation from allometric models (total and by compartments), application of allometric equation from literature and method that uses the volume, the density and biomass expansion factor (BEF). Were evaluated using the destructive method, 24 bamboos of the species Bambusa oldhamii Munro and Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J. C. Wendl. For the estimation of biomass, were adjusted 5 models for the selection of the best one and the BEF calculated through the values of volume and density. These methodologies were compared among themselves and with the real biomass. The relationship of increased strength of independent variables with dried biomass measured was with dbh. In the adjustment of mathematical models, the best model was the 5 for the total biomass, model 1 for leaf and culm, and the model 3 for the limb. Of the three methodologies for estimating total biomass, the method of Biomass Expansion Factor demonstrated greater accuracy in estimates, being indicated, therefore, the potential use of this methodology.

Esse trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar a distribuição da biomassa nos compartimentos, bem como, testar e selecionar métodos para estimativa de biomassa total para o gênero Bambusa. Para o teste dos métodos foram avaliados: método da estimativa a partir de modelos alométricos, aplicação de equação alométrica obtida por literatura e método que utiliza o volume, a densidade e o fator de expansão da biomassa (FEB). Foram avaliados, utilizando o método destrutivo, 24 bambus das espécies Bambusa oldhamii Munro e Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J. C. Wendl. Para a estimativa de biomassa, foram ajustados 5 modelos para a seleção do melhor e calculado o FEB através dos valores de volume e densidade, metodologias estas comparadas entre si e com a biomassa real. A relação de maior força das variáveis independentes com as biomassas secas mensuradas se deu com o dap. No ajuste dos modelos matemáticos, o melhor modelo foi o 5 para o compartimento total, modelo 1 para folhagem e colmo, e o modelo 3 para os galhos. Das três metodologias de estimativa da biomassa total, o método do Fator de Expansão da Biomassa demonstrou maior acurácia nas estimativas, sendo indicada, portanto, a potencial utilização dessa metodologia.