Biochar properties

The search for meaningful and desirable biochar properties is still under way. Nevertheless, there are certain chemical and physical properties that are widely considered relevant to the behaviour and function of biochar in soil. In this chapter, some of the more accessible properties are described, giving the reader the necessary tools and understanding to grasp the interaction of biochar in the soil environment covered in Chapter 4.In this chapter, ‘what biochar is’ is described in general terms, and then we go on to take a closer look at the desirable material properties of biochar. The most important biochar properties are its polycondensed aromatic carbon structure with functional groups and its porous physical structure, which can be translated into stability (C sequestration), and nutrient and water holding capacity, respectively.This chapter illustrates this theoretical approach by empirically examining a range of specific biochars and property variation across biochars, including a range of biochars produced under the European context in order to achieve European Biochar Certification.