Production and characterization of biochar from sugarcane straw

Abstract

The objective of this work was to produce and characterize biochar from sugarcane straw, as well as to investigate possible phytotoxic effects on the germination of cotton, maize, and soybean. To this end, the biochar was produced in a double-drum oven and characterized by different techniques. The germination trials were conducted in vitro, with biochar doses varying between 0 and 100 t/ha. The biochar was obtained with a yield of 40%, pH equal to 9.10, electrical conductivity of 2.22 dS/m and specific surface area of 20.3 m2/g. The elemental analysis showed H/C and O/C atomic ratios of 0.41 and 0.21, respectively. The FTIR showed the presence of C=C groups, while SEM/EDS showed a honeycomb porous structure and nutrients such as Mg, K and Ca. The germination test classified the biochar as a phytonutrient for corn and showed no phytotoxicity for soybeans. On the other hand, for cotton, the highest doses (50 and 100 t/ha) caused phytotoxicity. The results of this work meet the global demands for green techniques. Biochar made from sugarcane straw is a promising technology to improve the infertility of poor soils and manage carbon sequestration.