Characterization of Crop Residue as Fire Fuel in Mechanized Sugarcane Areas

Objective: The objective of this study was to quantify and characterize the residual biomass of sugarcane, focusing on fine vegetative fuels, after the first and second cuts in mechanized harvesting areas located in the municipalities of Uberaba and Conquista (MG). Theoretical Framework: The research is based on fire ecology applied to agriculture, considering the role of crop residue as a risk factor for uncontrolled fires in sugarcane fields. The theoretical framework relies on concepts of forest fuels and classification by time lag to ignition, emphasizing the importance of fine fuels in fire propagation. Method: A quantitative and descriptive methodology was adopted, with field data collection, sample weighing, oven drying, and statistical analysis using descriptive statistics and box plots. Residual plant material samples were classified by diameter and analyzed for moisture content and mass. Results and Discussion: The results showed a significant increase in fine fuel load between cuts (from 2.70 to 21.30 t∙ha⁻¹). This factor increases the potential for ignition and fire spread. Research Implications: This study provides data on dry biomass load in Cerrado sugarcane fields, offering technical support for planning fire prevention and control strategies. Originality/Value: The contribution lies in the quantitative approach to crop residue across different cutting cycles, an area still underexplored in the literature.