Nanobiochar: An Overview of the Production Steps, Physicochemical Characteristics, and Potential Utility in Sustainable Agriculture
摘要
Nanobiochar (NBC), a nanoscale derivative of biochar, is emerging as a material of interest in sustainable agriculture and environmental management. Derived through advanced post-pyrolysis processes such as ball milling, sonication, centrifugation, and hydrothermal synthesis, NBC exhibits unique physicochemical properties, including high surface area, enhanced porosity, and abundant functional groups. These attributes enable NBC to act as an effective soil amendment, slow-release fertilizer, and agent for contaminant remediation. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of NBC production methodologies, emphasizing the influence of feedstock selection, pyrolysis conditions, and nanoscale conversion techniques in shaping its properties. This chapter is focused on the utility of NBC in agriculture, underscoring its importance in improving soil health, enhancing nutrient retention, and supporting plant growth under stress conditions such as drought and salinity. The production methods, physiochemical properties, and the underlying mechanisms that distinguish it from other materials have been discussed in detail. This chapter also discusses the challenges and key parameters to be considered to ensure their safe and effective use.