Biochar
Biochar is a versatile product made up of pure carbon left over from a variety of processes that involve biomass. There are many environmentally beneficial uses for this wonder material, ones that involve sequestering that carbon in the ground or construction materials, reducing the carbon footprint of everything coming out of the Woodland BIO systems. Some of the applications of Biochar include:
Biochar for Fetilizer
Biochar acts as a potent additive to fertilizers that lowers the amount of NPK components needed to create an effective blend (Learn more 1). It also improves water retention in the soil, lowering water consumption and pollution by reducing runoff (Learn more 2).
Biochar for Animal Feed Amendment
When used as an amendment in animal feed research indicates that the biochar reduces the amount of methane emitted from livestock (Learn more 1), while simultaneously improving the quality and quantity of meat produced (Learn more 2).
Biochar for Animal Bedding
When used for animal bedding biochar has several benefits (Learn more):
The biochar absorbs ammonia from the atmosphere. This reduces smell, which reduces the frequency with which the pen needs to be aired-out. This reduces heating costs normally associated with reheating the facility after an air-out.
By absorbing the ammonia and mixing it with animal waste, the biochar becomes a potent fertilizer that can be directly applied to fields or sold to market. In this way, farmers can turn their waste bedding into another source of revenue.
The animals eat a small amount of biochar, providing the benefits listed above for animal feed.
Biochar for Environmental Remediation
In recent years, its application in environmental remediation has received extensive attention (Learn More 1). Biochar has been used for soil remediation and amelioration, carbon sequestration, organic solid waste composting, decontamination of water and wastewater, catalyst and activator, electrode materials, and electrode modifier (Learn more 2).
Biochar has been found to be effective in removing heavy metals from contaminated soils. It can also be used as a potential strategy for the remediation of contaminated mining sites (Learn more 3). Biochar-based materials provide a novel approach against environmental challenging issues (Learn More 4).
Biochar for Steel Production
It can also be used as a sustainable substitute for coke in steel making, another major industry in PA, helping to reduce the impact of producing this crucial material. This would allow the mills to localize their supply chain, simultaneously improving price stability and reducing their climate impact (Learn more).
Biochar for Concrete Production
Biochar can be used as an additive in concrete production to improve mechanical properties such as compressive strength and fire resistance. It can also reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and road infrastructure (Learn more 1). When incorporated into roads, it can help with pollutant retention, adsorption of de-icing salts and petroleum residues, and filtration of rainwater. Biochar was also used as a coating for recycled concrete aggregates to improve their bonding with cement (Learn more 2).
