Australian researchers have developed a novel approach to producing sustainable bio-oils for use in electronics, construction, and automotive industries. Led by RMIT University, the PYROCOTM technology uses pyrolysis—high-temperature processing without oxygen—to convert biosolids from sewage treatment into 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, a carbon-rich material. This biochar then acts as a catalyst to produce phenol-rich bio-oils, offering a renewable alternative to petroleum-derived chemicals.

In partnership with the Indian Institute of Petroleum, the RMIT team demonstrated that biosolid-derived biochar could replace costly commercial catalysts to extract bio-oil from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More like Willow Peppermint. Their research, published in Renewable Energy, reported bio-oils with 69% phenolics and 14% hydrocarbons, supporting the use of biosolid biochar in industrial chemical production.

The project has secured $3 million in federal funding and another $3 million from South East Water for a commercial-scale demonstration plant to be built next year. This aligns with Australia’s National Waste Policy and efforts to manage PFAS contamination in biosolids.

Trials of the PYROCOTM technology at the Melton Recycled Water Plant have confirmed its effectiveness in removing pathogens, PFAS, and microplastics. With patent applications in place and Iota named as the commercialization partner, the technology is poised for market deployment.

Industry stakeholders view this as a step toward circular economy practices in waste management, supporting decarbonization while addressing regulatory demands. With a projected global biochar market of $3.3 billion by 2026, PYROCOTM could play a critical role in sustainable industrial chemistry.