Potential green applications of biochar derived from biomass

Abstract

In recent years, various researches and studies have been done to identify ways to convert biomass into biochar, namely by means of thermochemical conversion methods. A few common thermochemical conversion processes for biochar production includes gasification, hydrothermal carbonisation, torrefaction and pyrolysis. Biochar is a highly carbonaceous and microporous solid which has been widely studied on due to its potential prominence in energy, environmental and agronomical applications. Since biochar is typically produced from biomass, the production and application of biochar can be considered as a sustainable process. The high energy and carbon content of biochar, which are comparable to fossil coals, could potentially allow biochar to be used as an alternative renewable fuel in the power generation sector. Biochar can also be used as an adsorbent for carbon sequestration, which could contribute to mitigate climate change by lowering carbon dioxide (CO2) level in the atmosphere. The micropores developed during the pyrolysis process has improved the microscopic surface area of biochar, thus enhancing its efficiency in carbon capture. In the agriculture sector, biochar can be used as a soil amendment to improve agricultural productivity. Biochar helps to increase the soil’s water and nutrients holding capacity, hence lowering the fertiliser requirement. Multiple studies have shown success in improving plant growth and productivity when biochar is mixed with the soil. In this paper, an in-depth understanding on how the difference in operating conditions and biomass feedstock will affect quality of the biochar produced will be discussed. The effects of the biochar on its applications in energy, environmental and agronomical field will also be discussed extensively. Overall, this paper will provide great insights into waste reutilisation to generate value-added products while providing attention and solutions to environmental concerns via easing agricultural wastes pollution.