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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Florence, South Carolina » Coastal Plain Soil, Water and Plant Conservation Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #291706
Title: Assessing designer biochar characteristics to ameliorate specific soil limitations

Author
item Novak, Jeffrey
item Spokas, Kurt
item Ro, Kyoung
item JOHNSON, MARK - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/13/2013
Publication Date: 8/20/2013
Citation: Novak, J.M., Spokas, K.A., Ro, K.S., Johnson, M.G. 2013. Assessing designer biochar characteristics to ameliorate specific soil limitations [abstract]. North American Biochar Symposium. http://symposium2013.pvbiochar.org.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: It is widely recognized that not all biochars are equal in their ability to improve soil physical and chemical properties that influence soil health. Therefore, we are examining the potential of engineering biochars through feedstock, pyrolysis conditions, and particle size selection to have predictive actions in soils. To assist in creating a comprehensive framework for designer biochar, we have been conducting extensive characterization of the biochar chemical and physical properties, impact of feedstock selection/blending, and impact of thermal and hydrothermal processing conditions. Scientists with the USDA-ARS and US Environmental Protection Agency have conducted extensive laboratory assessments to link biochar and soil characteristics with their predictive behavior under field conditions. This presentation will provide an update on this pivotal concept and demonstrate how this information is used in a decision support system for customizing biochar field application.