Pyrolytic Char: New age for the carbon sequestration

The question of global climate modification, specifically emissions of greenhouse-gas must be reduced. Fossil fuel Emissions are the prime contributor to the greenhouse effect, so it is evident that reduction in fossil-energy utilize is a main concern. A green technology that may withdraw the carbon from atmosphere proves so active in multi-faceted challenges. Long term and substantial withdrawl with lower risk of rapid leakage is heavily desirable on the carbon sequestration tool. Biochar sequestration is such a sound technology when merges with bioenergy production, it reduces emissions as well as sequesters carbon. Plantation, an existing option for carbon capture has already been accepted under Kyoto Protocol. “Pyrolysis” (heating treatment of the plant biomass without oxygen at low temperature) of this afforested biomass can take the sequestration to next level. Containing double carbon content than ordinary biomass, Biochar, captures carbon in more long-lasting form.  Pyrolysis sufficiently enhances the carbon sequestering and energy production.

Carbon species present in Bio-char range in highly intricate carbon like graphite to high molecular weight aromatic rings, which can persevere for thousands to millions of years in soil .  If 10% of the world biomass NPP is converted into charcoal, at 50% yield and 30% energy from volatiles, it would sequester 4.8 GtC/yr, approx. 20% more than the current annual increase of atmospheric carbon, at 4.1 GtC/yr.