Biochar as a Sustainable Product for the Removal of OdorEmissions

[wf-scholarly-article title=”Biochar as a Sustainable Product for the Removal of Odor
Emissions – Mini Literature Review” authors=”Lukasz Sobal,Arkadiusz Dyjakon.” publication=”Revista de Chimie” year=”2022″ doi=”10.37358/RC.22.4.8557″ url=”https://www.researchgate.net/publication/364958707_Biochar_as_a_Sustainable_Product_for_the_Removal_of_Odor_Emissions_-_Mini_Literature_Review”]

Odors are a significant environmental concern that can impact the quality of life. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from biomass, is emerging as a promising solution for odor reduction due to its ability to absorb odor-causing compounds. This review explores the current uses of biochar in managing odors, including its applications in compost, biofilters, and soil, and highlights its potential for broader practical use with further research.

Using Biochar to Help Reduce Odor Problems

Odors can be unpleasant and even cause health issues for people. Biochar, a material made from organic waste like wood and crop residues, shows promise in reducing these odors. Unlike traditional methods, biochar not only absorbs bad smells but also helps recycle waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Biochar Research

Researchers conducted a literature review using the Web of Science database, focusing on studies from January 1, 2000, to March 1, 2022. They searched for terms like “biochar,” “biocoal,” and “biocarbon,” combined with “odor” or “odour.” Relevant articles were selected based on specific criteria, and the snowball method was used to find additional studies by reviewing references. This approach provided a comprehensive understanding of biochar’s applications in odor control.

A Versatile Solution for Odor Control

Biochar is a carbon-rich material created through pyrolysis and torrefaction of biomass at temperatures between 200 to 700°C. This process gives biochar a highly porous structure, large specific surface area, and high organic carbon content, making it an excellent sorbent. It effectively adsorbs gases like hydrogen sulfide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhancing its utility in environmental applications. The decomposition of cellulose and lignin during pyrolysis further increases its porosity and sorption capacity.

Compost Additive and Soil Amendment

Adding biochar to compost and soil helps reduce emissions of ammonia and volatile sulfur compounds. It enhances microbial activity, reduces volatile fatty acids, and improves the overall quality of compost. As a soil additive, biochar also improves soil health and traps odors from fumigants, benefiting agricultural practices and environmental health.

Biofiltration and Biocover

Biochar serves as an effective medium in biofilters, aiding in the breakdown of odor-causing compounds like acetone, xylene, and ammonia. Its porous structure supports microbial growth, crucial for pollutant biodegradation. Additionally, biochar can be used as a biocover, covering odor-causing solids such as animal manure or acting as a floating cover on liquids. This application reduces harmful gas emissions, improving air quality around storage areas.

Dietary Supplement and Direct Adsorbent

In livestock management, biochar can be added to animal feed to reduce odors from manure, particularly ammonia. Biochar is also effective as a direct adsorbent, capturing pollutants like acetaldehyde, VOCs, and sulfur compounds from the air, making it a valuable tool in odor control systems.

Concluding Thoughts

Biochar is a sustainable product that can be effectively used in various systems to remove odors. Research shows that, besides being a direct adsorbent for filtering gases, biochar can also serve as a dietary supplement, compost additive, soil enhancer, biocover, and biofiltration medium. It is even used as a base material for products designed to absorb odors. Generally, biochar is recognized as a cost-effective solution for odor removal. Its application not only helps in controlling odors but also addresses issues related to waste biomass disposal and management. The effectiveness of biochar in these roles depends on factors such as its type, physical and chemical properties, and how it is used in each specific process.