Li, Li, et al (2024) Volatiles from 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 of wet or dry tomato leaves make a drastic difference in activation of sawdust-derived 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. Renewable Energy, Vol 223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2024.120052

This research investigates the potential of steam generated during 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 pyrolysis for biochar activation, a process creating highly porous activated carbonActivated carbon is a form of carbon that has been processed to create a vast network of tiny pores, increasing its surface area significantly. This extensive surface area makes activated carbon exceptionally effective at trapping and holding impurities, like a molecular sponge. It is commonly More with diverse applications. Utilizing readily available waste like tomato leaves, the study aimed to recover energy from steam while enhancing biochar properties.

Dry and wet tomato leaves were pyrolyzed, generating steam and volatile compounds. Their impact on sawdust-derived biochar, placed in a separate chamber heated to 700°C and 800°C, was then evaluated. Interestingly, dry leaves led to adverse effects. Their volatiles interacted with the biochar, forming deposits that clogged its pores and significantly reduced surface area.

Wet leaves, however, presented a different story. The abundant water vapor generated during their pyrolysis effectively gasified these deposits, resulting in a net increase in micropores and a higher overall surface area (361 m² g⁻¹ at 800°C) compared to the dry leaves’ treatment. This translates to an enhanced ability to adsorb pollutants like phenol, making the biochar more valuable.

Furthermore, the volatile-char interactions with dry leaves enriched the biochar with oxygen, increasing its hydrophilicity and thermal stability. This suggests potential applications beyond pure adsorption, such as catalysis or energy storage.

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the promising interplay between steam and biochar activation. It offers a sustainable and waste-to-wealth approach for generating valuable activated carbon from readily available biomass, while maximizing energy recovery through steam utilization.