Sustainable Utilization of King Coconut Husk as a Feedstock in Biochar Production with the Highest Conversion Efficiency and Desirable Properties

Abstract

King coconut husk biochar is a soil amendment that can potentially increase soil fertility in degraded soils under perennial coconut plantations. This experiment was conducted in a laboratory to investigate the properties of biochar produced with different cut sizes of king coconut husk under different pyrolysis conditions. Full husk, 1/2nd cuts, 1/4th cuts, 1/8th cuts, and chips of king coconut husk were pyrolyzed at 300°C and 500°C temperatures for 20, 30, 40, 60, 90, and 180 minutes of residence times, respectively. Even though partial pyrolysis was observed at 300°C under a few residence times, complete pyrolysis was observed at 500°C under all six residence times. Increasing the residence time caused a statistically significant (P<0.05) reduction in biochar yield at 500°C due to the removal of chemical compounds and gases by thermal decomposition under prolonged high-temperature conditions, resulting in low biochar output. The fixed carbon, volatile matter, ash, and pH levels have not improved substantially due to prolonged residence time. The highest level of fixed carbon was detected after 60 minutes of residence time with the least amount of ash and volatile components. Using biochar made from king coconut husk with a 1/4th cut size as a soil amendment with minimal processing and drying activity will be economically viable to increase carbon sequestration.

Assessing the Impact of King Coconut Husk Ash and Biochar, Combined with Chemical Fertilizer Application, on Enhancing Soil Fertility in Coconut Plantations

“…King coconut husks (KCHs), an abundant agricultural waste material in Sri Lanka from the king coconut water industry, present an opportunity. Converting KCH into biochar and ash mitigates environmental impact and aligns with resource conservation principles [8,9]. Numerous studies, including those by Hossain et al [10] and Knoblauch et al [11], have highlighted its potential to increase soil organic carbon sequestration while enhancing critical soil health components.…”

Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture through King Coconut Husk Ash: Investigating Optimal Processing Parameters for High Potassium Content and Efficient Waste Management

“…aurantiaca), indigenous to Sri Lanka, has long been cherished for its sweet and refreshing water [2]. The global demand for bottled king coconut water has led to a significant accumulation of empty king coconut husks in nut water export industries, posing challenges in managing and disposing of this agricultural waste [3]. However, it has drawn interest as a valuable resource with multifaceted applications in the present world.…”