Dr. Sally Foud: The Difference Between Biochar, Charcoal, and Activated Carbon
Researcher in Pyrolysis Technology and Agricultural Waste Recycling
Carbon-Based Tools in the Climate Battle
Amid escalating environmental challenges, various forms of carbon—biochar, charcoal, and activated carbon—are emerging as powerful tools in mitigating climate change.
While these materials share a common carbon origin, each has unique properties and applications that distinguish its environmental role.
1- Biochar
Definition:
Biochar is a stable carbon-rich material produced through slow pyrolysis of agricultural residues (such as rice straw, palm fronds, and nutshells) in a low-oxygen environment.
Characteristics:
- Highly porous
- Chemically stable
- Retains carbon in soil for hundreds of years
Climate Applications:
- Improves soil fertility and enhances crop yields
- Sequesters carbon in soil
- Reduces emissions of nitrous oxide and methane from soil
- Treats polluted soils and wastewater
-2 -Charcoal
Definition:
Charcoal is a carbon material resulting from the pyrolysis of wood or plant biomass, traditionally used as a fuel for cooking and heating.
Characteristics:
- High carbon content
- Quick to ignite
- Often produced in environmentally unfriendly kilns
Climate Impact:
When produced irresponsibly, it contributes to deforestation and increases carbon emissions
Traditional stoves increase indoor air pollution
Solutions:
- Shift to high-efficiency kilns for cleaner production
- Re-purpose as soil enhancer or precursor to biochar/activated carbon
3- Activated Carbon
Definition:
Activated carbon is produced by physically or chemically activating charcoal or biochar to significantly increase its internal surface area.
Characteristics:
- Extremely porous
- Highly absorbent of gases and chemicals
- Widely used in filtration and environmental purification
Environmental & Climate Applications:
- Wastewater treatment
- Air purification from harmful gases (e.g., sulfur dioxide)
- Used in protective masks and energy plants
- Effective in capturing emissions from power and biofuel facilities
Text-Based Comparison
Biochar is made from agricultural waste through slow pyrolysis. It is used primarily in soil improvement and long-term carbon sequestration, making it highly climate-positive.
Charcoal is derived from wood or plant material through pyrolysis and used mainly for cooking and heating. Its climate impact is mixed, depending on how it’s produced.
Activated carbon is processed from biochar or charcoal and used in filtration and industrial purification. Its role is technically positive in combating pollution.
Conclusion
These three carbon-based materials are no longer just fuels—they are essential elements in a comprehensive environmental strategy for fighting climate change.
Biochar stores carbon in the soil and regenerates agriculture.
Activated carbon purifies our air and water.
Charcoal, if produced responsibly, can serve as a cleaner fuel alternative.
The winning formula begins with smart production and responsible usage.
