Application of Novel Biochars from Maize Straw Mixed with Fermentation Wastewater for Soil Health

Abstract

Recently more and more researches have focused on the preparation of novel biochars for specific use in soil amendment. A series of novel biochars (MS) produced by maize straw mixed with different fermentation wastewater are introduced for their preparation and application for soil health. Preparation methods of novel biochars include physical activation, chemical activation, and blending modification. Physical activations are more efficient than chemical activations in enhancing pristine biochar's surface structure, while the chemical activations are more capable in creating special functional groups. Blending modification method, mixing different kinds of additives with waste biomass together before pyrolysis, is usually used to increase the nutrient contents. The modified novel biochars have excellent properties such as high surface area and pore volume, rich functional groups, and high nutrient contents. The application of novel biochars to soil can improve soil fertility, promote plant growth, and increase crop yield. After the application of the novel MS biochars in soil, the contents of soil organic carbon and nitrogen were significantly increased. The addition of 5\% novel biochar to soil showed the best performance for ryegrass growth and H2O2 enzymatic activity enhancement.