Biochar is a type of charcoal that is produced through the pyrolysis of biomass. Pyrolysis is a process of heating biomass (such as wood, crop residues, or animal manure) in the absence of oxygen, which leads to the decomposition of organic material and the production of char. This char, which is a stable form of carbon, can be used as a soil amendment and carbon sequestration method.
Biochar is commonly used in agriculture to improve soil fertility, water retention, and nutrient availability. When added to the soil, it can enhance the soil's ability to hold onto water and nutrients, promoting plant growth and potentially reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
As for making biochar in a solar oven, it is possible, but it may be challenging to achieve the high temperatures required for efficient pyrolysis. Traditional biochar production methods involve heating biomass to temperatures between 400°C to 700°C (752°F to 1292°F) in a low-oxygen environment. Solar ovens, while capable of reaching relatively high temperatures, might not consistently reach the required temperatures for effective biochar production.
Efficient biochar production typically requires specialized equipment like a kiln or a retort that can achieve and maintain the necessary high temperatures for an extended period. These traditional methods ensure complete conversion of the biomass into biochar while avoiding the release of excessive smoke and harmful byproducts.
If you are interested in experimenting with biochar production using a solar oven, it can be done, but keep in mind that the yield and quality of the biochar may not be as high as that obtained through traditional pyrolysis methods. It's important to exercise caution during the process and follow safety guidelines when dealing with high temperatures and biomass combustion.