Organic feedstocks including agricultural residues, wood waste, and energy crops undergo pyrolysis in controlled environments without oxygen. High-temperature thermal decomposition converts biomass into biochar while producing syngas and bio-oil as co-products. Biochar is characterized and tested for carbon content, surface area, and stability before soil application. Application methods include direct incorporation, compost blending, and fertilizer coating for optimal soil integration.
Permanently sequesters carbon for 100-1,000 years while improving soil health and crop productivity, utilizes waste biomass streams creating economic value from agricultural residues, and reduces methane emissions from organic waste decomposition. Biochar improves soil water retention and nutrient cycling. The technology provides measurable and verifiable carbon removal.
High production costs and energy requirements for pyrolysis equipment, variable quality depending on feedstock and production conditions, and limited understanding of long-term soil impacts. Transportation costs can be substantial for bulky biochar products. Market development needed for widespread adoption by farmers.