Summary
This study describes a hydrothermal carbonisation process to convert microalgae—recovered from wastewater treatment—into phosphorus-enriched biochar suitable for agricultural use as a slow-release fertiliser. The approach couples wastewater treatment with nutrient recycling and soil amendment, potentially reducing reliance on mined phosphorus whilst recovering a valuable nutrient stream. The work addresses both circular economy and soil fertility objectives within crop-soil systems.
UK applicability
The methodology may be relevant to UK farm waste management and soil amendment strategies, particularly where wastewater treatment infrastructure exists. However, applicability depends on localised wastewater composition, climate suitability for microalgae production, and cost-competitiveness with conventional phosphorus fertilisers under UK market conditions.
Key measures
Phosphorus content, release kinetics, biochar characterisation, soil phosphorus availability, crop response metrics (as inferred from title)
Outcomes reported
The study examined hydrothermal carbonisation of microalgae recovered from wastewater as a method to produce phosphorus-enriched biochar for use as a slow-release fertiliser in crop-soil systems. As suggested by the title, the research assessed phosphorus recycling efficiency and fertiliser performance characteristics.
Topic tags
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