Exploring Biochar Production in Applied Smouldering Systems

Given the immediate risks of climate change, bold carbon sequestration initiatives are needed. Biochar production has been suggested as one such initiative (1). Biocharis a carbon-rich by-product of thermal processing biomass, typically via pyrolsis, and its application in agricultural systems has been demonstrated as viable method to improve soil quality (2). However, pyrolsis units rely on edothermic reactions and therefore require external energy, which can lead to process complexity.
Applied smouldering is emerging as valuable environmental engineering technology due to its systems have been demonstrated suitable for a range of application. e.g. for waste-to-energy remediation, resource recovery/generation, and off grid sanitation in low-income countries. (3). Smouldering is a flameless, low-temperature form of combustion that is harnessed in these systems to support a self-sustaining process without the need for external energy. These systems are highly energy efficient and can therefore manage problematic wastes, e.g. with high moisture content or low volatility.