Turning biochar into activated carbon

Did you know Biochar can be converted into activated carbon?

Biochar can be transformed into activated carbon through a process known as activation. This process significantly increases the surface area and porosity of the biochar, making it an effective adsorbent for various applications. There are two main methods for activation:

1. Physical Activation:

Physical activation involves exposing biochar to oxidizing gases at high temperatures:

1. Steam activation: Biochar is heated to 750-950°C in the presence of steam. The steam reacts with carbon to create pores and increase surface area.
2. CO2 activation: Similar to steam activation, but uses carbon dioxide gas instead at temperatures around 800-1000°C.
3. Air oxidation: Biochar is heated in air at lower temperatures (around 300-400°C) to partially oxidize the surface.

2. Chemical Activation:

Chemical activation uses chemical agents to create porosity:

1. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) activation: Biochar is impregnated with KOH solution and then heated to 700-900°C in an inert atmosphere. This is very effective for creating high surface area.
2. Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) activation: Biochar is mixed with phosphoric acid and heated to 400-600°C. This creates micropores and mesopores.
3. Zinc chloride (ZnCl2) activation: Similar to phosphoric acid activation, using zinc chloride as the activating agent.

Key Factors In Converting Biochar To Activated Carbon Process:

• Type of Biochar: The properties of the biochar, such as its composition and porosity, influence the activation process and the final properties of the activated carbon.
• Activation Method: The choice of activation method depends on factors such as the desired properties of the activated carbon, cost, and environmental considerations.
• Process Parameters: The temperature, time, and concentration of the activating agent play a crucial role in determining the surface area, porosity, and adsorption capacity of the activated carbon.
• Washing and Drying: After activation, the activated carbon is typically washed to remove any residual activating agent and then dried.
• Post-Treatment: The activated carbon may undergo further post-treatment, such as grinding or impregnation with specific chemicals, to tailor its properties for specific applications.

Applications of Activated Carbon from Biochar:

• Water Treatment: Removal of contaminants, such as heavy metals, organic pollutants, and taste and odor compounds.
• Air Purification: Adsorption of volatile organic compounds and other pollutants.
• Gas Storage: Storage of gases such as hydrogen and methane.
• Industrial Processes: Catalyst support, decolorization, and purification.

Overall, transforming biochar into activated carbon is a valuable process that can enhance its functionality and broaden its applications. By understanding the various activation methods and optimizing process parameters, activated carbon with desired properties can be produced for specific uses, contribute to an increased environmentally friendly future.

BioChar From Paulownia Tree Farms

Our paulownia tree plantations that are utilized in carbon project management for the the creation of carbon credits for the voluntary and compliance carbon markets utilize the biochar as a soil amendment to grow healthy paulownia trees.

Paulownia Tree Farms - https://bioeconomysolutions.com/megaflora-tree-farms/

Paulownia Carbon Credits - https://bioeconomysolutions.com/paulownia-carbon-credits/

As you see how the use of biochar supports a 360 degree circular economy. Utilizing our paulownia forest waste, the limbs from the tops of the trees, the off cuts from our paulownia lumber operations and saw dust are used as biochar biomass to feed our trees the nutrients they need and support healthy soils for all of our agricultural operations.

LEARN MORE

Visit us at: https://bioeconomysolutions.com/paulownia-carbon-credits/ Let's chat about paulownia tree solutions for sustainable Forest carbon credits projects.

Contact Us for details. Office: 843.305.4777 | Email: [email protected] Here's a link to our online calendar, schedule a conference call with us: www.bioeconomysolutions.com/bookcall

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