Advances and future directions of biochar characterization methods and applications
Avanthi Deshani Igalavithanaa b c, Sanchita Mandald, Nabeel Khan Niazie f, Meththika Suharshini Vithanageg, Sanjai J. Parikhh, Fungai N.D. Mukomei, Muhammad Rizwanj, Patryk Oleszczukk, Mohammad Ibrahim Al-Wabell, Nanthi Sirangie Bolanm, Daniel C.W. Tsangn, Ki‐Hyun Kimo✉, Yong Sik Okb c✉
- aDepartment of Biological Environment, School of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
- bKorea Biochar Research Center, O-Jeong Eco-Resilience Institute (OJERI) &
- cDivision of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- dInformation Technology Engineering and the Environment, Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA, Australia
- eInstitute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
- fMARUM and Department of Geosciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
- gChemical and Environmental Systems Modeling Research Group, National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Kandy, Sri Lanka
- hDepartment of Land, Air and Water Resources, University of California – Davis, Davis, CA, United States of America
- iDivision of Natural and Applied Sciences, William Jessup University, Rocklin, CA, United States of America
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Abstract
Biochar is a carbon-rich by-product of the thermal conversion of organic feedstocks and is primarily used as a soil amendment. Identification and quantification of biochar properties are important to ensure optimal outcomes for agricultural or environmental applications. Advanced spectroscopic techniques have recently been adopted in biochar characterization. However, biochar characterization approaches rely entirely on the user's choice and accessibility to the new technology. The selection of proper methods is vital to accurately and consistently assess biochar properties. This review critically evaluates current biochar characterization methods of proximate, ultimate, physicochemical, surface and structural analyses, and important biochar properties for various applications.