Hydrochar Production Methods: Comparative Insights into Hydrothermal and Microwave Processes

Abstract

This study compares hydrochar production from agricultural waste using conventional hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and microwave-assisted carbonization methods. Wheat straw (HWS), rice straw (HRS), and bagasse (HBG) were used as feedstocks. Microwave-assisted carbonization resulted in higher yields and distinct chemical structures compared to conventional HTC. Microwave hydrochars (m-HWS, m-HRS, mHBG) showed lower surface areas but increased pore volumes and thermal stability. They also exhibited enhanced heavy metal adsorption capacities, particularly at higher pH levels. These findings highlight the advantages of microwave-assisted carbonization for producing hydrochar with superior properties, offering insights for optimizing production processes and expanding applications.