Biochars Derived from Olive Mill Byproducts: Typology, Characterization, and Eco-Efficient Application in Agriculture—A Systematic Review

Abstract

In the context of climate change and the circular economy, biochar agricultural and environmental applications have attracted a good deal of attention. Biochar has unique characteristics like surface area, porosity, water-holding capacity, pH, surface charge, and nutrients. This study reviews the biochar production from olive pomace (OP) and olive stone (OS) byproducts, its chemical and physical characterization, and its environmental application. The current review highlights the conditions for biochar production, the effects of pyrolysis temperature, and feedstock type on the physicochemical properties of biochar. High pyrolysis temperature (>500 °C) promotes a high specific surface area, high porosity (especially for OS biochars), and pH as well as the content of ash and fixed carbon, but generates low cation exchange capacity (CEC) and electrical conductivity (EC) and high values of O/C and H/C ratio. OP biochar also presents a high C amount, and ash content, i.e., rich in nutrients and high alkalizing capacity. OP biochar serves as an important source of plant nutrients, especially potassium. After adding both types of biochar, aggregate stability and the amount of water held in soil increase, and bulk density and bioavailability of trace elements decrease. Thus, biochar from olive mill wastes can be a potential plant nutrient reservoir, a good amendment to improve soil properties and long-term carbon sequestration. Results presented in this review can be used to build designer biochars from olive mill wastes to help solve environmental issues (water purification and pollutant remediation) and are suitable for improving soil physical chemistry characteristics and crop growth.