Possibilities of Using Fodder Galega in the Energy Sector and Agriculture

Abstract

This paper presents changes in basic energy parameters of fodder galega (Galega orientalis Lam.) cultivated for five years as a potential energy crop under the effect of mineral fertilization. Additionally, the chemical composition of ash obtained after burning the fodder galega biomass was examined for its possible use as a liming agent. The field experiment was conducted between 2005 and 2009 in the experimental plots of the Soil Science and Plant Nutrition Department at the Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Poland (52 o 17´N and 22 o 28´E). Five levels of fertilization were included in the study: without fertilization, NP, NK, PK, NPKCa (0control, N-20, P-50, K-150, Ca-150 kg . ha -1 ). Significantly highest values of heat of combustion (18.95 MJ . kg -1 ) and calorific value were found for galega fertilized with nitrogen (20 kg . ha -1 ) and potassium (150 kg . ha -1 ). The highest dry matter yields and the highest yield energy value, as well as the most amount of ash obtained from biomass combusting were found for galega harvested from objects fertilized with NPKCa (20; 50; 150; 150 kg . ha -1

Fodder Galega—A Versatile Plant

“…Numerous studies have demonstrated that fodder galega yields well in various types of soil with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to alkaline [22,23]. Prior to sowing the seeds, it is recommended to apply up to 30 kg N/ha to the soil, i.e., a starter dose of nitrogen [24]. A study conducted by Sienkiewicz et al [25] showed that fodder galega responds well to phosphorus and potassium fertilisation.…”

“…Fodder galega has been recommended as a productive and sustainable energy plant by many researchers [6,24]. This species is able to produce a large amount of dry matter, which is one of the basic requirements for energy plants.…”

“…It contains a substantial amount of potassium and calcium, and slightly less magnesium and phosphorus. This ash can be successfully used for the fertilisation of many crop plants [24]. Fodder galega has been successfully used to reclaim land contaminated with petroleum derivative substances [44,52].…”

“…The calorific value of 1 kg of dry matter ranges within 16.7-18.7 MJ, being comparable to sweet sorghum, miscanthus, straw, tree bark and lignite. The use of galega biomass as a source of renewable energy does not cause such high emissions of SO 2 and NOx as when burning hard coal [24,48,54].…”

“…It contains a substantial amount of potassium and calcium, and slightly less magnesium and phosphorus. This ash can be successfully used for the fertilisation of many crop plants [24].…”