Fecha de publicación: 26/12/2024 Fuente: Journal of Sustainable Development Abstract
Biochar, a carbon-rich substance produced through thermal decomposition of biomass, is gaining recognition for its potential in environmental and energy fields. To create biochar, biomass sources can be derived from both plants (lignocellulosic) and animals/sludge (non-lignocellulosic). Biochar production methods have made notable progress with advancements in pyrolysis techniques such as slow, fast, flash, microwave-assisted, and torrefaction, as well as gasification and hydrothermal carbonization, leading to enhanced efficiency and product quality. Pyrolysis, among these methods, offers considerable potential for biomass utilization. Over several decades, academic research has focused on understanding biomass pyrolysis mechanisms and improving technical processes. Therefore, this review begins by discussing pyrolysis mechanisms for both lignocellulosic and non-lignocellulosic biomass, along with reactor types employed in the process. It emphasizes the critical role of specific biomass types and conversion parameters—such as temperature, residence time, and heating rate—in determining biochar quality, addressing these factors to tailor biochar for distinct environmental needs. Furthermore, sustainable considerations, economic aspects, and future prospects for large-scale industrial production enhancement using existing methodologies are explored. This paper's significance lies in its role of consolidating and disseminating valuable information. By synthesizing existing research and elucidating various biochar production technologies, it facilitates the advancement of these technologies towards enhanced sustainability and efficiency.