Sidabutar, et al (2024) Towards low-cost and sustainable 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 based on empty fruit bunch: Effect of pelletization, microwave power, 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, and mass on biochar quality for commercial approach. Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscee.2024.100929

Palm oil production generates significant amounts of Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB), a waste product that is underutilized and can cause environmental issues if left to accumulate. This study explores a sustainable method for converting EFB into biochar, a valuable form of 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 that can be used for energy and soil improvement. By using a two-step process involving pelletization and microwave-assisted 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, researchers were able to enhance the efficiency and quality of biochar production.

Pelletization compresses the EFB into bio-pellets, increasing density and improving handling and combustion efficiency. Microwave pyrolysis then converts the pellets into biochar by applying heat in an oxygen-limited environment. The process was optimized using different masses (80, 100, and 120 g), microwave powers (450, 600, and 850 W), and pyrolysis times (20, 30, and 40 minutes). The study found that the highest quality biochar was produced at 850 W, using 80 g of material and a 40-minute 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 produced biochar had a high heating value of 26.73 MJ/kg, low moisture content (0.48%), and significant carbon content (67.4%), making it a suitable renewable energy source. The research highlights the potential of microwave pyrolysis combined with pelletization as an efficient, cost-effective approach to biochar production that can be scaled for commercial applications, helping to address waste management issues in the palm oil industry while providing a sustainable energy solution.