Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

Discussion in 'The big picture' started by Leon, Sep 30, 2008.

  1. Leon

    Leon Guest

    Hello everyone,
    I am a Technology Education student at Southern Cross University, and I am conducting a small research project investigating biomass pyrolysis as a future technology for Australian agriculture, as a carbon-negative source of useful chemicals, fuels and soil fertility improver. During my perusal of the literature, I discovered this forum and my hope is that people here may give me some insight into the issues at hand.

    The questions I am currently attempting to answer relate to the best scale and general feasibility of the technology in terms of sustainability. I have read about scales of production ranging from small metal drums in backyard gardens, to large industrial plants requiring extensive transport and providing highly controlled products. Which is most appropriate for agricultural areas in countries like Australia?

    Also, I would like to know what barriers are in place to prevent the widespread adoption of this technology. Are the required systems accessible to potential adopters? Is further development or incentives needed?

    Ideally, I would like to correspond with individuals or groups who actively use this technology. If anyone would be prepared to answer a few questions about their activities via email, please let me know.

    Any insight or comments would be much appreciated.

    Thanks,

    Leon Close.
     
  2. RobWindt

    RobWindt Junior Member

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  3. bazman

    bazman Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Hi Leon

    I have been involved in Biochar for a number of years now, more so on what to do with the stuff once you have created the char but I know a thing or two.

    PM me your details and I'll forward you my contact details.

    This group is focused now Biochar development.
    https://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/biochar/

    Baz
     
  4. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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  5. Leon

    Leon Guest

    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    I sent you a PM baz.
     
  6. Leon

    Leon Guest

    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Thanks, I have signed up to the Biochar list on Yahoo. I will look into those other sources as well.

    Is there anyone reading this who has first-hand experience with these technologies? Anything to do with pyrolysis, syngas, woodgas or biochar? Even if you've burnt some woodchips in a can I would like to know more.

    Leon.
     
  7. johnseed

    johnseed New Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Hi Leon, I live about 45 mins from Lismore and am involved in a discussion with a few people about making a small scale pyrolyser, you want to get together in Lismore one day and share notes? John Seed johnseed1 at ozemail.com.au
     
  8. Leon

    Leon Guest

    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Thanks John, I sent you an email.
     
  9. ppp

    ppp Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    I recall someone on this forum saying they had made a small scale plant out of drums or kegs? (I can't remember who!) anyone remember?
     
  10. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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  11. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Agricultural bio-char production, renewable energy generation and farm carbon sequestration in Western Australia
    https://terrapreta.bioenergylists.org/mchenryages129

    https://terrapreta.bioenergylists.org/makingcharcoal
     
  12. permasculptor

    permasculptor Junior Member

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  13. RobWindt

    RobWindt Junior Member

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  14. milifestyle

    milifestyle New Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    I used a similar system to the one above for making potting mix. I found smaller pieces of wood (a bit larger than regular wood chips worked better for the application i was using it for.
     
  15. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    https://jennifermarohasy.com/blog/2008/1 ... s-biochar/

    from
    https://hypography.com/forums/terra-pret ... post250105
     
  17. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    On tonight's (26/01/09) 7.30 Report on ABC TV, NSW.
    https://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2008/s2474577.htm
    I love it when people say "unproven" when what they mean is"I don't know" or "I've never heard of it" or "I've not taken the time or trouble to look at the research."
    The cost to set up a pilot plant at a council greenwaste depot would be about $6- 7 million. This would eventually be recouped in sales of biochar and energy.
    Depending on maintenance costs and whether there was enough biomass to keep a pyrolysis system going 24/7 , I would be surprised if it did not pay for itself in 3-5 years. Even if you started by giving the biochar away to garden enthusiasts, nurseries and farms.
    Better than the $600mil for "clean coal" a VERY unproven technology. (ie We know bugger all)
     
  18. ppp

    ppp Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    I'd love to see the numbers that you used to work out it would take 3-5 years to pay for itself.
    If there really is a business case then there is no reason why it can't be done with a bit of persuasion.
     
  19. Michaelangelica

    Michaelangelica Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    https://www.science.unsw.edu.au/news/uns ... -research/
     
  20. newcroft

    newcroft Junior Member

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    Re: Biochar and biomass pyrolysis

    Hi Michael,

    Got any extra info on your quote above?

    There's stacks of green waste ready to char at my local council, and a number of people in council are open to the idea. Where can they get extra info on a mid-sized pyrolosis unit (preferably a plant that costs much less than $6-$7 million too)?

    Thanks
     

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