Biochar production from lignocellulosic and nonlignocellulosic biomass using conventional and microwave heating

Biochars produced via pyrolysis of lignocellulosic and/or nonlignocellulosic biomasses have received increasing interest for use as soil amendments for sequestering carbon, regulating nutrient availability and immobilizing contaminants due to several attractive properties such as their large surface area, stable carbon (resistant to decay), and high ash content. While the impact of certain parameters such as feedstock type and pyrolysis condition on biochar properties has been well established, the impact of the heating method is still poorly understood. This Chapter describes two heating methods, conventional and microwave-assisted heating, widely used for pyrolysis. We discuss advances in the production of biochars using microwave-assisted pyrolysis, which is a newer technology than conventional pyrolysis. Based on the literature and our own research, we compare conventional and microwave-assisted pyrolysis and discuss the advantages and challenges associated with microwave-assisted pyrolysis.