A recent study by Sait et al., published in Agronomy, explores methods to optimize biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More production from palm kernel shells (PKS) using statistical (response surface methodology, RSM) and artificial intelligence-based modeling (artificial neural networks, ANN). The researchers analyzed the effects of pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More temperature, nitrogen flow rate, and residence timeResidence time refers to the duration that the biomass is heated during the pyrolysis process. The residence time can influence the properties of the biochar produced.   More on biochar yield, aiming to improve sustainability in agricultural waste management.

Under optimal conditions of 799.71°C pyrolysis temperature, 150.01 mL/min nitrogen flow rate, and 107.61 minutes residence timeThis refers to the amount of time that the biomass is heated during the pyrolysis process. The residence time can influence the characteristics of the biochar, such as its porosity and surface area.   More, the RSM model achieved a maximum biochar yield of 37.87%. This study revealed that temperature was the most influential parameter, supported by a high coefficient of determination (R² = 0.989) for the quadratic response surface model. Among four ANN models tested, the optimized ANN also showed strong predictive accuracy (R² = 0.9). However, the RSM model outperformed ANN in yield prediction accuracy.

Physicochemical analysis of biochar demonstrated high carbon content (92.9% at 800°C), mesoporous structure, and substantial surface area, making it suitable for applications like soil amendmentA soil amendment is any material added to the soil to enhance its physical or chemical properties, improving its suitability for plant growth. Biochar is considered a soil amendment as it can improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.   More, water filtration, and carbon sequestration.

This hybrid analytical approach underscores the potential of PKS biochar for waste valorization and environmental benefits, combining advanced modeling techniques to refine production parameters. The findings promote the use of sustainable materials for agricultural and industrial applications.

SOURCE: Sait, et al (2025) Hybrid Analysis of Biochar Production from Pyrolysis of Agriculture Waste Using Statistical and Artificial Intelligent-Based Modeling Techniques. Agronomy. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15010181