Clonal variation in gross heat of combustion of juvenile Populus hybrids

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Abstract
Gross heat of combustion using an oxygen bomb calorimeter at ovendry condition was determined and analyzed for 2-year-old sprouts of 10 hybrid Populus L. clones of diverse genetic background. Values showed a clonal range of 14% from a low of 4357 cal g−1 (1 cal = 4.1868 J) to a high of 4955 cal g−1. Clones of section Aigeiros Duby (cottonwood) showed significantly greater energy potential than representatives of section Leuce Duby (aspens). There was a significant interaction of clones × sprouts indicating environmental conditions or manner of growth may influence the magnitude of clonal differences. No relationship was found between potential energy and stem specific gravity.Sample discs from a 5-year-old P. tremuloides stem and an 8-year-old P. × euramericana cl. DN-30 were also analyzed by individual growth rings. No relationship was found with density. Outer bark (rhytidome) showed higher calorific values than inner bark (secondary phloem). The possible implication in breeding poplars for energy production is discussed.

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