Enhancing Biochar Production from Daniellia oliveri Leaves Through Cow Dung Co-feed: A Novel Approach

This study investigates using retort carbonization to produce high-quality biochar from Daniellia oliveri leaves in sub-Saharan Africa. Addition of cow dung as a co-feed enhances biochar quality. Characterization analyses reveal improved surface properties, suggesting potential for sustainable biomass utilization in the region.

March 19, 2024

1–2 minutes

Ighalo, Abidemi, et al (2024) Retort Co-carbonization of *Daniellia oliveri* Leaves: Effect of Cow Dung Co-feed on 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 Properties. Waste and 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 Valorization. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12649-024-02461-z

In sub-Saharan Africa, Daniellia oliveri trees shed a substantial amount of leaves during the dry season. This study explores the potential of retort carbonization, a novel biomass conversion technique, to produce high-quality biochar (BC) from these leaves. Additionally, it investigates the impact of using cow dung as a co-feed on the quality of the biochar.

The process involved ambient pressure and a 100-minute process time. Biochar yields were analyzed for both Daniellia oliveri leaves (DO-BC) and cow dung co-feed (DC-BC) at different peak temperatures. Characterization techniques including SEM, EDS, FTIR, DTA/TGA, and BET analysis were employed.

The study revealed a higher biochar yield for DC-BC compared to DO-BC. Cow dung co-feed resulted in increased specific surface area and morphological differences in the biochar, with enhanced surface heterogeneity and more inorganic elements observed in DC-BC. Functional group analysis indicated a greater presence of certain groups, such as C–O and C–H, in biochar produced with cow dung co-feed.

The systematic addition of cow dung as a secondary component to the feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More proved beneficial, improving both the yield and surface properties of the final biochar obtained. This research underscores the potential of utilizing agricultural by-products to enhance biochar production efficiency and quality, offering promising avenues for sustainable biomass utilization in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.