Characterization Of Biochar Research Articles

An Evaluation of the Contribution of Cellulose, Hemicellulose and Lignin to Bio-Char Combustion and Adsorption Properties

The present work focuses on the contribution of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin for bio-char application in two aspects: fuels and adsorbent. The pyrolysis behaviors were studied at 300 to 700 °C, and the yields and characterization of bio-chars were compared. The results showed that in the three components, lignin was responsible for the formation of bio-char products, representing the main source of bio-char characterized by high heating value. Lignin was the strongest support for prepared bio-char as fuel decided by physico-chemical properties and combustion reactivity, while cellulose was the major contributor for bio-char products as ignition fuel. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and surface area analysis of bio-char showed that, in the three components, cellulose derived bio-chars exhibited a distinctive fibrous structure and the surface area was the largest at the same pyrolysis temperature. Compared with lignin, hemicellulose was a better precursor for adsorption, it is mainly determined by complex and abundant pore structure. Further adsorption tests of toxic substances in soil showed that, cellulose represented major adsorption donator for phenol, all bio-char samples had better adsorption capacity for Pb(II) than Cu(II), the rule on adsorption capacity of three different precursors for Cu(II) was as follows: cellulose>hemicellulose>lignin, for Pb(II): hemicellulose> cellulose> lignin.

Bonding Properties and Morphological Characteristics of Torrefied Pelletised Biochar from Palm Oil Industry’s Residues Empty Fruit Bunch

The utilization of palm oil industry’s residues on empty fruit bunch (EFB), for biochar production has gained considerable attention due to its potential in waste management and sustainable resource utilization. In this study, the investigation of bonding properties and morphological characteristics of torrefied pelletised biochar derived from EFB was done through torrefaction process which is a thermal treatment process under low oxygen conditions to enhance the energy density and stability of the biochar. Torrefied pelletised biochar was formed from the torrefied EFB biochar utilising the strand size of 750µm, holding temperature of 274°C, and residence time of 90 minutes, and later mixed with a binding agent at proportions (10%–30% of weight). The bonding properties of torrefied pelletised biochar were further analysed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for identifying functional groups present in the torrefied pelletised biochar. Morphological characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyse the surface morphology and pore structure. Results indicate that torrefaction significantly improved the bonding properties of the torrefied biochar but not for the pelletised biochar. SEM images revealed a more compact and homogeneous structure with enhancing the porosity of the torrefied biochar in preparing them as pelletised due to the help of pores size for binder. FTIR analysis demonstrated alterations in functional groups, suggesting chemical transformations induced by torrefaction. The enhanced bonding properties and morphological characteristics contribute to its suitability for practical implementation in agricultural and environmental sectors, thereby promoting sustainable waste management practices and resource utilization.

Green synthesis and physicochemical characterization of an eco-friendly zero-valent iron biochar based on Coula edulis shell and morinda bark extract using response surface analysis

In this present study, two biochars obtained from agricultural residue considered as waste were chemically activated with H2SO4 (HN/AC) and also impregnated with zero-valent iron using morinda stem bark extract...

Production and characterization of wood biochar from energetic forests by pyrolysis in a horizontal screw reactor

Production and characterization of wood biochar from energetic forests by pyrolysis in a horizontal screw reactor

Unveiling the reactor effect: a comprehensive characterization of biochar derived from rubber seed shell via pyrolysis and in-house reactor

Biochar produced using our in-house reactor exhibits superior properties and cost-effectiveness compared to biochar prepared via a traditional pyrolysis reactor.

PYROLYSIS OF SOYBEAN WASTE: A ROUTE TO BIOCARBON FOR PESTICIDES CAPTURE

Background: This study explores the potential use of biomass residues from soybean pressing via static pyrolysis to produce carbonaceous materials for pesticide adsorption. It emphasizes concerns regarding the environmental impact of agroindustrial waste and the persistent nature of pesticides in soil and water systems. Aims: To investigate the efficacy of biochar obtained from soybean waste in adsorbing pesticides. Specifically, to analyze the gas products generated during pyrolysis and characterize the obtained carbonaceous material for its adsorption capabilities. Methods: Soybean residue underwent static pyrolysis at various temperatures and durations. Gas analysis utilizing FTIR spectroscopy identified the gaseous products generated during the pyrolysis process. The obtained biochar underwent successive washes and characterization through FTIR spectra comparison with commercial activated carbon. Through absorption assays, using UV-VIS spectroscopy, investigations were conducted on the solid biocarbon fractions to evaluate their capacity for absorbing pesticides. Results: Gas Analysis: The study revealed the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and highlighted the prevalence of mono-carbon compounds with increased temperature and pyrolysis time. The analysis demonstrated consistent carbon mass percentages across different reaction conditions. Characterization of Biochar: Comparison with activated carbon indicated structural similarities with heightened intensity in certain bands, suggesting the presence of incomplete cellulose cracking in the obtained biochar. Regarding the Chlorothalonil, Atrazine and DIcamba remotion, notably, the concentration of Chlorothalonil in a 7:3 water: acetonitrile solution decreases by 77 % through adsorption on the carbons. Discussion: The investigation examined the adsorption efficiency of the biochar for Chlorothalonil, Atrazine, and Dicamba from aqueous solutions. Chlorothalonil exhibited substantial retention by the biochar, while Atrazine showed comparatively lower adsorption effectiveness. Remarkably, Dicamba did not demonstrate retention by either the biochar or activated carbon. Conclusion: The study underscores the potential of pyrolyzed soybean waste for pesticide adsorption, particularly highlighting Chlorothalonil's strong affinity with the carbonaceous structure. Further research is needed to optimize adsorption properties and explores potential enhancements of these materials through additional treatment methods, offering promising avenues for environmental remediation.

Pengaruh Temperatur Pirolisis Terhadap Karakteristik Biochar dari Limbah Padat Agroindustri Teh

The Gambung Tea and Kina Research Center (PPTK) produces solid waste in the form of twig/branch and tea leaf waste from the pruning process of tea plants, as well as tea fluff waste from tea processing in tea factories with considerable potential. These wastes, if processed efficiently, can be a driver of circular economy activities. The high carbon content in twig, leaf, and tea fluff waste makes the waste potential to be processed into an alternative energy source in the form of fuel through a pyrolysis process. This study aims to select the most potential waste to be processed into fuel and determine the effect of pyrolysis temperature on the characteristics of the biochar produced. The results showed that tea twig and fluff waste has a higher carbon content than tea leaf waste so that it has more potential to be processed into fuel. The quality of tea twig biochar is better than tea fluff biochar because the characteristics of tea twig biochar on average meet the requirements of good biochar according to SNI 1683 2021 compared to tea fluff biochar.

Comparative removal of pharmaceuticals in aqueous phase by agricultural waste-based biochars.

The intensification of pharmaceutical use globally has led to an increase in the number of water bodies contaminated by drugs, and an effective strategy must be developed to address this issue. In this work, several biochars produced from Miscanthus straw pellets (MSP550, MSP700) and wheat straw pellets (WSP550, WSP700) at 550 and 700°C, respectively, were selected as adsorbents for removing various pharmaceuticals, such as pemetrexed (PEME), sulfaclozine (SCL), and terbutaline (TBL), from the aqueous phase. The biochar characterizations (physicochemical properties, textural properties, morphological structures, and zeta potentials) and adsorptive conditions (contact times, temperatures, and pH effect) were investigated. The infrared and Raman spectra of biochars before and after pharmaceutical adsorption, as well as quantum chemical computations, were carried out to explore the adsorption mechanisms. The results showed that the general adsorption abilities of biochars for pharmaceuticals were in the order of WSP700 > MSP700 > MSP550 > WSP550. Both the higher drug concentration and higher temperature improved biochar adsorption. By decreasing the pH, the adsorption amounts increased for PEME and SCL. However, TBL exhibited the best adsorption at pH7, whereas a weakening of affinity occurred at lower or higher pH values. Electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding were the main adsorptive mechanisms between all biochars and pharmaceuticals. π-π interactions played a role in the adsorption process of low-temperature-prepared biochars (MSP550 and WSP550). This work can provide new insights into the control of pharmaceuticals from water with low-cost adsorbents. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Use of biochars for pharmaceuticals removal from aqueous phase. Characterization of biochars : physical and chemical properties, textural and surface properties. Simulation calculation for characterization of pharmaceuticals. Kinetic studies of pharmaceuticals adsorption on biochars. DRIFTS and Raman analysis for the understanding of adsorption process.

Effective mitigation of Cadmium contamination in soil through Sawdust Biochar application

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in soil is a serious environmental concern, and this study examines the effectiveness of sawdust biochar in reducing Cd contamination over three months. The study explores different sawdust biochar application rates and their effects on the amount of extractable Cd in the soil. According to the study, sawdust biochar has a high potential for addressing Cd pollution. Importantly, over the duration of the investigation, extractable Cd concentrations gradually decreased as a result of the use of biochar. In particular, compared to lesser application rates of 2.5% and 1.25%, the highest biochar application rate (5%) resulted in a significant reduction in cumulative leachable Cd content. Additionally, compared to the control group, all biochar-amended soils showed considerably decreased cumulative leachable Cd levels. The leachate study demonstrated the time-dependent efficiency of biochar in lowering Cd concentrations, with Cd concentration declining from 14 mg/L in August 2023 to a meager 0.004 mg/L in October 2023. Diffusion within the porous structure of biochar was determined to be the main process underlying heavy metal adsorption. However, the observed decrease in the effectiveness of heavy metal removal with biochar may be explained by surface oxidation, which creates a greater number of accessible adsorption sites. Furthermore, the soil's capacity to absorb Cd2+ was greatly improved by the raised pH brought on by biochar application, further enhancing Cd removal. The study also showed the importance of pyrolysis temperature on biochar characteristics, with higher temperatures greatly improving Cd adsorption capability. This study's findings highlighted the significant potential of sawdust biochar as a powerful technique for reducing soil Cd pollution. These results highlighted the potential of biochar for Cd remediation and crucial role that pyrolysis temperature plays in determining biochar's characteristics and adsorption capacity.

Synthesis, characterization, and comparison of N-modified biochar with different nitrogen sources for bisphenol A adsorption

Synthesis, characterization, and comparison of N-modified biochar with different nitrogen sources for bisphenol A adsorption

Production and Characterization of Biochar Produced from Batch Slow Pyrolysis of Millet Straw

Production and Characterization of Biochar Produced from Batch Slow Pyrolysis of Millet Straw

Effect of air equivalence ratio on the characteristics of biomass partial gasification for syngas and biochar co-production in the fluidized bed

In order to explore the characteristics and mechanism of biomass partial gasification for biochar and syngas co-production in the fluidized bed, a study on the influence of gasification performance and biochar characteristics after partial gasification with different air equivalence ratios was carried out in a self-built small atmospheric bubble fluidized bed. The results indicate that when the air equivalence ratio rises from 0.07 to 0.16, the lower calorific value of wet producer gas keeps decreasing, and the maximum value can reach 9.16 MJ/Nm3. The biochar yield shows a declining trend, and the maximum value is 18.07 %. In addition, when the air-equivalence ratio is lower than 0.14, the rising of air equivalence ratio makes biochar more disordered due to the newly formed C–O structures, and the total Raman intensity will thereby continue to increase.

Influence of different pyrolysis temperature on the characteristics of forestry waste biochar for sodium adsorption

Influence of different pyrolysis temperature on the characteristics of forestry waste biochar for sodium adsorption

Characterization of Coffee-Pulp Biochar as an Additive to Enhance Biogas Production from Coffee Mucilage

Biogas has been effectively produced from solid as well as liquid biomass waste through anaerobic digestion (AD). It has been proved that AD is the most efficient technology and less environmental effect in converting biomass to biogas. However, it is challenging that the rate of biogas production might slow down by many factors. It requires continues research in order to overcome the problem, such as by adding an additive. The use of several additives for AD has received great attention due to the positive influence in improving the production performance of biogas in terms of process stability and efficiency, and production capacity. Among all types of additives, carbon material in the form of bio-char has been considered as the most profitable due to low cost and easy to produce from various carbon source materials. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of coffee pulp bio-char which will be used as an additive in biogas production from coffee mucilage by the AD method. Coffee pulp biomass and coffee mucilage were obtained from Aceh Tengah, Indonesia. Preparation of bio-char was carried out by washing and soaking of the coffee pulp with tap water for 24 hours, then drying under the sun for three days. Carbonization of dried coffee pulp was then performed using a pilot plant-scale pyrolysis reactor at temperature of 400 °C for 60 minutes. Resulting biochar was then ground and sieved to 60 mesh size. Based on to proximate analysis result, it was found that the moisture, ash, volatile matter, and fixed carbon contents were respectively 1.98%, 11.93%, 42.36%, and 43.72%. N2-physisorption analysis of coffee-pulp bio-char suggested pore volume of 0.21 cm3/g. From BET calculation method it was found that the surface area was 224.1 m²/g. This high surface area is beneficial for providing sheltered spaces for microbes to attach and hindering them against metabolic inhibitors. The effect of adding biochar additives from coffee skin waste in the anaerobic digestion process of coffee mucilage waste provides significant results on the yield of biogas products. The yield of biogas products increased by 225% with the addition of 15 gr/L of biochar coffee pulp.

Prediction of biochar characteristics and optimization of pyrolysis process by response surface methodology combined with artificial neural network

Prediction of biochar characteristics and optimization of pyrolysis process by response surface methodology combined with artificial neural network

A systematic review of lignocellulosic biomass for remediation of environmental pollutants

Lignocellulosic wastes are the most promising feedstock, as they are the most inexpensive and abundantly renewable natural resource. The abundance of cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose in feedstocks has been shown to be effective in eliminating persistent contaminants. Environmental issues, including the accumulation of agricultural waste, waste water treatment, and air pollution, could be resolved by producing value-added products like activated carbon from these wastes. Several biomass wastes were used to produce activated carbon using a two-step processing method that involved oxygen-free carbonisation and activation. This study examines the methods for making biochar from different lignocellulosic biomass sources. Furthermore, biochar modification significantly modifies surface area and pore volume. To determine the fundamental characteristics of biochar and to evaluate its potential for use in a variety of environmental applications, physical and chemical characterizations are required. Various widely used modern analytical techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and Raman spectroscopy, have been reviewed in this work. The potential mechanisms through which lignocellulosic biochars may absorb pollutants are outlined. In general, this review highlights the significance and potential of activated carbon formed from waste products for environmental remediation, demonstrating that biomass-originated activated carbon could have a significant impact on increasing economic viability and efficiently protecting the environment.

Multitask Deep Learning Enabling a Synergy for Cadmium and Methane Mitigation with Biochar Amendments in Paddy Soils.

Biochar has demonstrated significant promise in addressing heavy metal contamination and methane (CH4) emissions in paddy soils; however, achieving a synergy between these two goals is challenging due to various variables, including the characteristics of biochar and soil properties that influence biochar's performance. Here, we successfully developed an interpretable multitask deep learning (MTDL) model by employing a tensor tracking paradigm to facilitate parameter sharing between two separate data sets, enabling a synergy between Cd and CH4 mitigation with biochar amendments. The characteristics of biochar contribute similar weightings of 67.9% and 62.5% to Cd and CH4 mitigation, respectively, but their relative importance in determining biochar's performance varies significantly. Notably, this MTDL model excels in custom-tailoring biochar to synergistically mitigate Cd and CH4 in paddy soils across a wide geographic range, surpassing traditional machine learning models. Our findings deepen our understanding of the interactive effects of Cd and CH4 mitigation with biochar amendments in paddy soils, and they also potentially extend the application of artificial intelligence in sustainable environmental remediation, especially when dealing with multiple objectives.

Biochar gasification: Insights from pyrolysis atmospheres and gasification heating rates

Gasification is a promising technology for the synthesis of syngas and hydrogen, with char reactivity being a pivotal factor in the design of industrial gasifiers. Despite extensive studies on the gasification characteristics of biochar, the influence of the pyrolysis atmospheres on the evolution of biochar pore structure and its reactivity in gasification remains poorly understood. This study aims to bridge this gap by comprehensively investigating the effects of char preparation atmospheres (i.e., CO2, H2O, and N2) on ensuring gasification reactivities at varied heating rates. Biochars were synthesized in a horizontal tube furnace at 700 °C with a low heating rate (10 °C min−1) under three different atmospheres: N2, CO2, and H2O. Subsequent gasification reactivities were investigated using i) a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) at a low heating rate (10 °C min−1) and ii) a wire mesh reactor (WMR) at a high heating rate (1000 °C s−1), both under CO2 atmosphere at 950 °C. The results showed that the presence of an active atmosphere (CO2 and H2O) during pyrolysis significantly impacts the biochar’s aromaticity, crystalline structure, and surface morphology. The functional group concentration and surface area trends indicated that CO2 and H2O atmospheres during pyrolysis enhance biochar reactivity compared to the N2 atmosphere, with the highest reactivity observed for biochars produced under H2O. Furthermore, biochar gasification reactivity was markedly higher using the WMR compared to TGA, underscoring the pronounced effects of heating rate on gasification behavior. The high heating rate in WMR preserved the biochar’s porous and amorphous structure, whereas the TGA gasification encountered diffusional limitations and thermal annealing effects. These insights underscore the need to consider pyrolysis atmosphere and heating rate in gasification studies, offering a more comprehensive understanding of biochar’s behavior under practical gasification conditions.

Recent Advances in the Effects of Biochar on Constructed Wetlands: Treatment Performance and Microorganisms

Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a kind of green environmental protection technology, which are widely used in sewage treatment. Traditional CWs are faced with the problem of a low treatment effect of high-concentration sewage. In recent years, biochar, as a new type of adsorption material, has been used in CWs because of its advantages of large specific surface area, strong adsorption capacity, and wide material sources. This paper systematically summarized the characteristics of biochar and the preparation of biochar by studying the changes in microorganisms added to CWs and compared the effects of different treatment methods coupled with biochar on the treatment performance of CWs. The effects of biochar coupled with CWs on enzyme activity, functional genes, metabolites, and microbial communities were investigated. This review summarizes how different preparation methods affect the properties of biochar and how these biochar properties cause changes in the microorganisms added to CWs. It provides a new theoretical basis for the treatment of pollutants in CWs.

Design, synthesis, characterization and application of magnetic biochar as a reusable nano catalyst for the synthesis of tetrazole derivatives

Design, synthesis, characterization and application of magnetic biochar as a reusable nano catalyst for the synthesis of tetrazole derivatives