Kaewtrakulchai, et al (2024) Parametric study on mechanical-press torrefaction of palm oil empty fruit bunch for production of 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. Carbon Resources Conversion. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crcon.2024.100285

A recent study explored the production of biochar from palm oil empty fruit bunches (EFB), a significant agricultural residue in Thailand, through mechanical-press torrefaction. This process applies both heat and mechanical pressure to enhance the chemical properties 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 before its conversion into biochar. Experiments were conducted at varying temperatures (240°C to 300°C) and mechanical pressures (25, 50, and 75 MPa), with subsequent carbonization at 600°C.

The results showed that both temperature and pressure had a profound impact on biochar yield and quality. As the temperature exceeded 280°C, mass yields declined significantly, especially under higher mechanical pressures, due to accelerated thermal degradation. At the highest setting of 300°C and 75 MPa, the carbon content of the torrefied EFB reached 55.68%, with a higher heating value (HHV) of 23.11 MJ/kg, making the biochar more energy-dense.

Further carbonization of the torrefied EFB enhanced its fixed carbon content and structural properties, increasing biochar yield to as much as 38.84%. Characterization using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Raman analysis confirmed the reduction in volatile components and the formation of a more graphitic structure in the biochar.

This study highlights the potential of mechanical-press torrefaction as a method to improve biochar quality, offering an effective strategy for converting agricultural waste into valuable carbon materials for energy and environmental applications.