Aging of biochar in soils and its implications
Résumé
Biochar undergoes changes that start almost immediately after removal from the reactor and continue indefinitely after application to soil. Such changes affect the physical-chemical properties of the biochar including particle size distribution, elemental content, oxidation state, acidity, ion exchange capacities, aliphatic and aromatic contents, degree of aromatic condensation, surface and pore characteristics, loss of matter from the biomass body, and other properties. Known as aging or weathering, these changes can influence the interaction of particles with small molecules and ions, dissolved natural organic matter, metal oxides and ions, and cells. This chapter reviews advances in knowledge and understanding of aging processes and their impacts since a similar chapter in the previous edition of the book. It discusses experimental methods of aging and their merits and shortcomings; transport of biochar particles and colloids in the soil profile; short- and long-term alterations in the physical-chemical properties of biochars; redox behavior of biochars; the effects of aging on the sorption of organic compounds; and the effects of aging on the reactions and sorption of metals.
Auteurs, date et publication :
Auteurs Joseph J. Pignatello , Minori Uchimiya , Samuel Abiven
Date : 2025