Characterization of biochar obtained from pyro-gasification of Jatropha Curcas residues through an updraft reactor

This study concerns the characterization of the biochar produced through the pyro-gasification of Jatropha Curcas residues obtained from the mechanical pressing of Jatropha seeds for oil production. Jatropha is a crop that can grow up in sandy and saline soils, with low levels of rainfall and at the same time it represents a valuable tool in order to reduce the soil erosion and desertification phenomena. The system used for the pyro-gasification test was an updraft fixed bed reactor. The biochar showed a carbon content of about 66Û that is greater than the minimum value required by the European Biochar Certificate (E.B.C.) and it was consistent with the values reported in the literature. In particular the high carbon content suggests the potential use of the biochar as tool for a stable soil carbon sequestration.