Summary
This narrative review examines pyrolysis technologies and process parameters for optimising biochar production from co-pyrolysis of plastic waste and biomass feedstock. The authors identify temperature, heating rate, residence time, reactor configuration, and feedstock blending ratio as the primary determinants of biochar yield, stability, and carbon content. The review emphasises the agricultural and environmental applications of biochar (soil amendment, yield improvement, carbon sequestration) whilst highlighting gaps in optimisation research and varying technology readiness levels across different pyrolysis pathways.
Regional applicability
The review is technology and mechanism-focussed rather than geographically specific. Findings on pyrolysis optimisation parameters would be broadly applicable to United Kingdom waste management and agricultural practice, particularly given the UK's interest in circular economy solutions for plastic waste and soil carbon sequestration; however, implementation would depend on local feedstock availability, regulatory context, and market demand for biochar.
Key measures
Biochar yield, carbon content, stability; temperature, heating rate, reactor bed height and type, residence time, pressure, feedstock type, feedstock blending ratio; technology readiness level (TRL)
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on pyrolysis techniques, reactor types, and process parameters that influence biochar yield, quality, and carbon content from co-pyrolysis of plastic and biomass feedstock. It identifies key determinants (temperature, heating rate, residence time, feedstock blending ratio) and assesses technology readiness levels across biomass, plastic, and co-pyrolysis pathways.
Topic tags
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