Biochar: A valuable soil amendment

Ippolito, J.A. and Lentz, R.D. and Novak M, J (2009) Biochar: A valuable soil amendment. Nutrient Management Newsletter for Idaho. 2(2):1-2. University of Idaho Extension.

PDF 1327.pdf Download (1MB)

Abstract

Biochar is a fine-grained, carbon enriched product created
when biomass (e.g. wood waste, manures) is bumed at relatively
low temperatures (less than 1300°F) and under an anoxic (lack of
oxygen) atmosphere. The process itself is called pyrolysis and is
similar to the production of charcoal, yet the intent is generally to
create biofuel with the concomitant production of the secondary
product, biochar.

Benefits of biochar addition to soils are recognized. Arnazonian
dark earth soils, also known as terra preta, are charcoalenriched
soils containing a high nutrient content from reduced leaching,
likely a response of human-induced biochar accumulation.
These soils, dating to between 450 BC and 950 AD, are unique to the Amazon region, as most tropical
soils are highly weathered and thus
generally infertile.

Item Type:	Article
NWISRL Publication Number:	1327
Subjects:	Soil Soil > Amendments
Depositing User:	Users 6 not found.
Date Deposited:	17 Dec 2009 16:44
Last Modified:	14 Oct 2016 14:53
Item ID:	1350
URI:	https://eprints.nwisrl.ars.usda.gov/id/eprint/1350