Co-carbonization of waste biomass with expanded polystyrene for enhanced biochar production

Expanded polystyrene and waste biomass (almond leaves) were investigated in this study as effective feedstocks for the synthesis of biochar. The biochar was created in a top-lit updraft conversion reactor, and its characteristics were examined for potential applications using a variety of analytical techniques. The biochar yields of 39.5 wt% for the biomass and 60.6 wt% for the hybrid system were obtained at peak temperatures of 295 °C and 320 °C, respectively. Samples of biomass biochar and hybrid biochar, with surface areas of 379 and 398.5 m2/g, respectively, showed mesoporous structures. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the hybrid biochar is more thermally stable than the biomass biochar, while FTIR results revealed the presence of several functional groups in both samples, validating their potential as adsorbents for the removal of pollutants. The study was able to establish practical methods for managing municipal solid waste, a plan for a sustainable environment, and the development of valuable products with a range of potential applications.