What is Biochar?
Biochar (Biological Charcoal) is a carbon-rich biological charcoal produced from decomposing organic materials or biomass at high temperatures and low oxygen, a process described as pyrolysis.
Pyrolysis is a process that involves heating the biomass in the absence of oxygen, which causes it to break down into char, gases, and liquid products. Biochar is the solid product that remains after pyrolysis.
Biochar from rice hull pyrolysis has potential applications in other areas asides from Agriculture, such as Water Treatment and Energy Production. Overall, the production of Biochar from rice hulls through Pyrolysis is a promising technology with a range of potential benefits.
BENEFITS OF BIOCHAR FROM RICE HULL PRODUCTION
The production of biochar from rice hulls through pyrolysis as developed by BIC Farms Concepts has several benefits.
- It provides a way to convert a waste product into a valuable resource.
- It can be used as a soil amendment to improve soil fertility, water retention, and nutrient availability
- It can sequester carbon in the soil, which in turn helps mitigate climate change.
BIOCHAR AS A SOIL AMENDMENT
- Â When biochar is added to soil, it can improve the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil. As it relates to soilless farming being evangelized by BIC Farms Concepts, Biochar is a major contributor to the greenhouse substrates used in our greenhouses in the form of BIC GROW mix.
- Biochar is highly porous, which allows it to absorb and retain water and nutrients in the substrate. This can help reduce the need for irrigation and fertilizers, saving farmers money and reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. The porosity of biochar also provides a habitat for beneficial microorganisms, improving substrate health and fertility.
- Biochar can also improve soil or substrate structure by increasing soil aggregation, reducing compaction, and enhancing aeration. This can lead to better root development and plant growth, as well as improved water infiltration and drainage.
Overall, the use of Biochar as a soil or substrate amendment has the potential to improve soil health, reduce the need for fertilizers and irrigation, and mitigate climate change. However, it is important to note that the benefits of biochar as a substrate amendment can vary depending on the type of Biochar, soil type, and climate conditions. Proper application rates and techniques should be considered to maximize the benefits of Biochar in agriculture.
