Estimation of Emission Factors and Ignitability Index from the Physicochemical Characterization of Ficus Benjamina for Energy Purposes

This work shows the physicochemical properties and assessment energetic quality assessments on the ignitability index and the emission factor of pruning from urban Ficus benjamina tree (Fb). Seven samples with different proportions and parts of the pruning were used. Such as; branches of different diameters, leaves, and their mixture. Proximate analysis, elemental analysis, and higher heating value analysis were conducted. From this information, the ignitability index and emission factor were estimated. The results showed that pruning of Fb has an average of 8.1 wt.% moisture, 75.15 wt.% volatile matter, 5.87 wt.% ash, 10.87 wt.% fixed carbon, 42.81 wt.% of carbon, 5.86 wt.% hydrogen, 1.01 wt.% nitrogen, 0.05 wt.% sulfur, and a higher heating value of 17.05 MJ kg^-1. Pruning of Fb has shown an ignitability index of 38.44, high CO and CO2 emissions, and low levels of NOx and SO2 emissions. When comparing the results obtained with the literature, pruning of Fb show potential to be explored as biofuels and energy generation systems.