Thermal-Chemical Conversion of Poultry Litter to Biochar for Long-Term Carbon Storage to mitigate Climate change

Abstract

This study investigated the use of biochar derived from used poultry litter as a sustainable method for carbon sequestration, soil improvement, and waste management. It was conducted at Daystar University farm, the research focused on transforming poultry litter a nutrient-rich agricultural waste into biochar through pyrolysis process. Biochar, characterized by a porous structure, enhances carbon retention in soil, improves soil structure, supports beneficial microbial activity, increases nutrient retention, buffers soil pH, and reduces erosion and reliance on chemical fertilizers. The study found that pyrolysis temperature and the litter's moisture content significantly affected biochar yield and quality. Lower pyrolysis temperatures (300–450°C) produced 15% more biochar than higher temperatures (500–700°C). Optimal moisture content was between 10–20%; moisture above 30% hindered the process due to energy loss in water evaporation, leading to incomplete pyrolysis, while moisture below 10% increased ash content, reducing biochar quality. On average, 100 kg of poultry litter yielded 32 kg of biochar. Converting litter into biochar helps trap carbon that would otherwise emit as CO◻ or methane, thereby mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, biochar production offers potential for generating carbon credits and accessing the carbon market, aligning environmental sustainability with economic benefits.