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Decomposition of Biomass
• Biochar can be produced as low 500°C.
• We maximize pyrolysis temperature so that we increase GAS &
LIQUID yields. By doing so, ALL degradable products are driven from
the biomass.
• The only thing that remains is Carbon. The properties of this carbon is
heavily dependent on the process.
• The carbon is actually carbon that the plant absorbed during their life
time (Mostly CO2)!
• By putting this carbon that the plants absorb into the soil you can
actually Sequester Carbon.
Decomposition of Biomass
Heating biomass in the absence of Oxygen to
1100°C (2012°F) drives off:
• Moisture @ 100°C
• Hemicellulose @ 150°C
• Cellulose @ 300°C
• Lignin @ 500°C
What’s left? => CARBON
Soluble Salts
http://blogs.cornell.edu/horticulture/files/2011/11/Soluble-
Salts-May-6-2013-o36voh.pdf
= 1.1 mmhos/cm
Surface Area Coral Reef of the Soil – An increase in surface area means more space for
air, gas, water, microbes, nutrients, etc. For example, carbon dioxide
content in soil is actually a good indicator of soil health but it must be
exchanged with fresh air frequently.
Biochar improves soil structure or
soil aeration in fine-textured soils.
Adding biochar has a direct impact
on bulk soil structure.
Higher processing temperatures is
commonly associated with higher
surface areas.
Fertilizer Efficiency As CEC is improved, nutrient losses through leaching are reduced
during rainfall. Altering the soil physical condition, reduced soil
strength & increased field capacity of hard setting soils improves
available fertilizers.
Microbial Life Microbes eat carbon in order to get the energy they need to
sustain life. Carbon can come from organic plant material, waste
products produced by other organisms or the bodies of
microorganisms themselves.
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