Wijitkosum (2024) Influence of 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 Temperature and Time on 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 Properties and Its Potential for Climate Change Mitigation. Journal of Human, Earth, and Future, Vol 4. https://doi.org/10.28991/HEF-2023-04-04-07

Disposable bamboo chopsticks (DBCs) are ubiquitous, yet rarely recycled. This study explored a promising solution: transforming DBC waste into biochar, a charcoal-like substance with potential benefits for mitigating climate change. The research focused on understanding how pyrolysis temperature and duration influence biochar’s properties and effectiveness.

The scientists analyzed various properties crucial for biochar performance, including moisture content, fixed carbon, and elemental composition. They tested six different pyrolysis conditionsThe conditions under which pyrolysis takes place, such as temperature, heating rate, and residence time, can significantly affect the properties of the biochar produced.   More, varying temperature (400-500°C) and holding time (20-60 minutes).

The results were clear: temperature and duration significantly impacted biochar properties. Higher temperatures and longer durations led to increased fixed carbon, carbon content, and pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More, while reducing moisture, volatile matterVolatile matter refers to the organic compounds that are released as gases during the pyrolysis process. These compounds can include methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide, which can be captured and used as fuel or further processed into other valuable products.   More, and oxygen content. Additionally, biochar became more aromatic and less polar with these changes.

Interestingly, temperature and duration interacted – their combined effect significantly influenced multiple properties. This highlights the importance of optimizing both factors for desired outcomes.

The study identified DBC biochar produced at 450-500°C for 20-60 minutes as suitable for climate change mitigation. Notably, biochar created at 500°C for 20 minutes stood out with exceptional qualities: highly stable, water-repellent, and enriched in fixed carbon (76.49%) and carbon (88.06%).

This research paves the way for converting everyday waste into a valuable resource for combatting climate change. Further studies can explore large-scale implementation and potential applications in various sectors.