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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
09:39
Physical, Chemical and Biological Characterization of Six Biochars Produced for the Remediation of Contaminated Sites
Published on: November 28, 2014
Potential phosphorus eutrophication mitigation strategy: Biochar carbon composition, thermal stability and pH
L W Ngatia1, Y P Hsieh1, D Nemours1
1Center for Water and Air Quality, College of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL 32307, USA.
Chemosphere
|April 14, 2017
Summary
Optimizing biochar for phosphorus sorption requires feedstock-specific pyrolysis temperatures, as higher temperatures and alkalinity enhance phosphorus removal, crucial for mitigating agricultural pollution.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
- Biogeochemistry
Background:
- Phosphorus (P) eutrophication from agriculture is a global issue.
- Understanding biochar's role in phosphorus sorption is limited.
- Biochar optimization for phosphorus removal needs further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how biochar feedstocks and pyrolysis conditions affect carbon properties and pH.
- To determine the influence of these factors on phosphorus sorption capacity.
- To optimize biochar application for mitigating phosphorus pollution.
Main Methods:
- Biochar production from switchgrass, kudzu, and Chinese tallow at various temperatures (200-750°C).
- Analysis of carbon thermal stability (MESTA) and composition (solid-state 13C NMR).
- Phosphorus sorption assessment in a 10% biochar/90% soil mixture.
Main Results:
- Increased pyrolysis temperature enhanced P sorption and decreased P availability.
- Optimal P sorption varied by feedstock; switchgrass showed desorption between 200-550°C.
- P sorption order: kudzu > switchgrass > Chinese tallow. Higher thermal stability, aromatic C, and alkalinity correlated with increased P sorption.
Conclusions:
- Biochar shows potential for P eutrophication mitigation.
- Optimal pyrolysis temperature for P sorption is feedstock-dependent and may fall outside the typical 300-500°C range.
- High thermal stability, aromatic carbon, and alkaline pH favor P sorption.
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