Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass through pyrolysis, is gaining attention for its benefits in fields like carbon sequestration, and soil health. As demand grows, biochar quality has become a key concern for producers, investors, and users alike. To help you evaluate biochar effectively, here are three practical tips for assessing product quality.
Three Practical Tips to Assess Biochar Quality
1. Touch Test: Examine Biochar Texture
Take a small amount of biochar in your hand and squeeze it. High-quality biochar should easily break apart into a fine powder, feeling smooth and silky without any hard particles. This indicates the uniform and complete biomass pyrolysis process.
2. Visual Inspection: Observe Color and Sheen of Biochar
Under good lighting—either natural sunlight or artificial light—high-quality biochar will have a bright, shiny appearance. A glossy surface suggests that the produced biochar has a high carbon content and fewer impurities. Dull or ashy appearances may indicate lower quality or incomplete pyrolysis.
3. Auditory Check: Listen to the Sound of Biochar as it Falls
Take a handful and let biochar drop onto a hard surface. If it produces a crisp, clear sound, it’s a good sign. This indicates that the structure is intact, and the material is porous, which is essential for enhancing soil aeration and water retention.
By using these simple methods—touch, sight, and sound—you can effectively evaluate biochar quality after production or before purchasing. Quality biochar from biochar machine not only contributes to healthier soils but also plays a crucial role in sustainable environmental practices.