Evaluating river driftwood as a feedstock for biochar production

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Material Science
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Driftwood accumulation in rivers poses infrastructure risks, leading to its removal and disposal.
• Collected driftwood is typically combusted or landfilled, representing a missed resource utilization opportunity.
• Biochar production via pyrolysis or hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) offers a sustainable valorization pathway for driftwood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize river driftwood, identifying common genera at the Génissiat dam.
• To comprehensively analyze the physico-chemical and macromolecular properties of river driftwood.
• To assess the suitability of river driftwood as a feedstock for biochar production.

Main Methods:

• Identification of common driftwood genera at the Génissiat dam.
• Comprehensive analysis of physico-chemical properties: moisture content, elemental composition (CHNSO), Higher Heating Value (HHV).
• Analysis of macromolecular composition: cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and extractives.

Main Results:

• River driftwood can be characterized by its genera and physico-chemical properties.
• River transportation can enhance driftwood properties by reducing bark and ash content.
• Driftwood exhibits suitable properties for biochar production regardless of genus or type.

Conclusions:

• River driftwood is a viable and sustainable feedstock for biochar production.
• Valorization of driftwood through pyrolysis or HTC can mitigate disposal issues and create valuable products.
• The study provides crucial data for optimizing driftwood utilization in biochar manufacturing.