Cui, et al (2024) 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, phosphate, and magnesium oxide in seaweed and cornstarch dregs co-composting: Enhancing organic matter degradation, humification, and nitrogen retention. Waste Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wasman.2024.07.024

Recent research in Waste Management explores how biochar, phosphates, and magnesium oxide (MgO) can improve the composting of seaweed and cornstarch dregs. Seaweed, with its plant-stimulating properties, presents a valuable resource for composting but needs enhancement to ensure efficient degradation and nutrient retention. Co-composting with carbon-rich cornstarch dregs addresses seaweed’s low carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.

The study demonstrates that adding 10% corn stalk biochar, along with phosphates (KH2PO4 and K2HPO4·3H2O-KH2PO4) and MgO, significantly enhances the composting process. This combination increases the degradation of organic matter by 33.8%, boosts nitrogen retention, and promotes humification, improving the compost quality. Specifically, biochar and high-buffering salts increased nitrate and total nitrogen by 16.8% and 4.8%, respectively, while raising humic acid to fulvic acid ratios by 49.6%.

Advanced techniques like X-ray diffraction and parallel factor analysis reveal that biochar and additives enhance oxygen utilization and cellulase activity, crucial for breaking down proteinaceous substances and cellulose during composting. The study also finds that these treatments preserve and slightly enhance seaweed’s plant-stimulating effects.

The research highlights the potential of integrating biochar, phosphates, and MgO into composting practices to create high-quality compost. This approach not only mitigates seaweed waste but also produces valuable soil amendments, supporting sustainable agricultural practices. The findings underscore the benefits of biochar and additives in optimizing composting efficiency and product quality.