Analysis of the ash

The ash is ready to be transported to the forest.
But before it is ready, it must be an analysis that shows whether the ashes meet the Forest Board recommendations. This is done by taking samples at various locations on the ash piles  and submit them for analysis. Once the chemical composition is confirmed to be within the recommendations, the ashes are transported to the forest.

 

How is sampling to?
Analysis is needed to verify whether the ash is suitable for use as a starting material for the production of a   ash recycling product. It is also necessary to take samples of the finished product. For the analysis to be accurate sampling must be done in a proper manner.

It is considered that most of the uncertainty associated with an analysis depends on the sampling is done. The ash can be heterogeneous and originate from different parts of the heating season with different fuel mixture. A standard method should be used when sampling to minimize the risk of uncertain test results.

Generally, sampling should be made at least once per heating season. In farms with varied fuels and operating conditions it should be more frequent sampling.

 

Recommended levels
To give the desired effect, the ash should contain sufficient amounts of the desired nutrients. The Forest Board has indicated minimum levels that should be fulfilled (see Table below). If the levels is lower, there is a possibility to add these nutrients to the ash product.

 
Below is the recommended minimum and maximum levels of substances in ash products that are intended for distribution in the woodland. The recommendations refer to dry weight concentrations in the ash product spread in the forest, after the addition of plant nutrients and binders. The specified guidelines do not relate to other residues than ash.

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