Akinfiresoye, et al (2024) Discovering the Macro-Elements Presence in 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 Produced
Indigenously. ABUAD Journal of Engineering Research and Development (AJERD). https://doi.org/10.53982/ajerd.2024.0701.21-j

Biochar is gaining attention for its potential to improve soil fertility, increase crop yields, and aid in environmental conservation. To address the challenge of local biochar production, researchers at the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji in Nigeria have designed and fabricated an Indigenous Biochar Production Kiln (IBPK).

The IBPK converts 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 into biochar through thermal decomposition, using a two-drum system. The inner retort drum (IRD) is loaded with biomass, such as wood waste, and placed inside an outer drum filled with firewood. When ignited, the firewood heats the biomass to produce biochar. The IBPK’s efficiency was demonstrated through a trial, converting 55 kg of wood waste into 39.17 kg of biochar with a 71% conversion efficiency. The average operating temperature was 269°C over a period of 182 minutes.

The biochar produced was rich in essential macro-elements: nitrogen (3.31%), phosphorus (21.7%), potassium (5.05%), and carbon (69.95%). These elements are crucial for 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, enhancing soil fertility and structure, and providing a slow-release nutrient source for crops. Additionally, biochar helps in sequestering carbon, thus mitigating climate change impacts.

The IBPK is an affordable and straightforward technology, costing approximately ₦52,200 (USD 135), making it accessible for local farmers and young graduates looking to enter the biochar production industry. This innovation not only supports sustainable agriculture but also provides a practical solution for managing agricultural waste.

Further research is planned to automate the IBPK process and explore the effects of varying biomass moisture content on conversion efficiency. The success of this project underscores the potential of local innovations in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship.