Biochar (green charcoal) is a porous substance, rich in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, containing a large exchange surface, slowly biodegradable and stable over hundreds or even thousands of years.

Biochar is produced by the pyrolysis process. This transformation process enables the thermochemical decomposition of plant biomass (wood residues: chips, shavings and sawdust; agricultural co-products: wheat, rape and corn straws, rice husks, sunflower stalks, peanut hulls, etc.), in the absence of oxygen or under very limited oxygen conditions.

The starting point for interest in biochar was the “discovery” of Terra Preta in the Amazon, a highly fertile dark soil. The fertility of this soil lies in its extremely high carbon content: one hectare of Terra Preta contains 250 tonnes of carbon.

BIOCHAR for soil improvement

The effects of biochar on soil productivity are as follows: Soil structuring; Stimulation of biological activity responsible for mineralization(+40% fungi and mycorrhiza); Improved retention of nutrients in the soil(+50% cation exchange); Attraction and retention of mineral ions (ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and boron); Increased water retention capacity (up to 18%); Increased pH of acid soils(1 point higher); Increased soil organic matter; Reduced weed germination.

BIOCHAR for energy

Biochar (green charcoal) is a high-quality, solid biofuel suitable for a wide range of industrial and domestic applications (heat production, electricity generation, domestic heating, barbecues, etc.). It is an excellent substitute for traditional charcoal and wood pellets.

Biochar comes in various forms: briquettes, pellets or balls. It can be used in most ovens and heaters used in developing countries, making an active contribution to the fight against deforestation.

BIOCHAR for animal feed

Here are just a few examples of the effects of biochar on livestock:

Cows: Increased milk production; Minimization of foot infection problems; Reduced diarrhea; Reduced mortality rate; Improved immune system; Increased life expectancy; Reduced mammary infections; Prevention of stones; Prevention of stomach torsion; ….

Chickens: Improved growth of young chickens; Better metabolization of nitrogen into amino acids (useful proteins); Increased number of eggs laid; Longer career; …