Nitrogen containing functional groups of biochar: An overview. (February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leng, Lijian; Xu, Siyu; Liu, Renfeng; Yu, Ting; Zhuo, Ximeng; Leng, Songqi; Xiong, Qin; Huang, Huajun
• Is Part Of: Bioresource technology. Volume 298(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-02
• Subjects: Engineered bio-char -- Designer biochar -- Pyridinic nitrogen -- Pyrrolic nitrogen -- Quaternary nitrogen; Biomass -- Periodicals; Biomass energy -- Periodicals; Bioremediation -- Periodicals; Agricultural wastes -- Periodicals; Factory and trade waste -- Periodicals; Organic wastes -- Periodicals; Bioénergie -- Périodiques; Déchets agricoles -- Périodiques; Déchets industriels -- Périodiques; Déchets organiques -- Périodiques; Déchets (Combustible) -- Périodiques; 662.88
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122286
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-8524

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Pyridinic-N, pyrrolic-N, and quaternary-N dominate biochar N-functional groups. N-functional groups of biochar can be analyzed by FTIR, XPS, NMR and XANES. N-functional groups are mainly results of biomass, pyrolysis temperature & N-doping. Biochar N-functional groups favor pollutant removal, redox reaction & energy storage. Abstract: Biochar is a carbonaceous material produced by thermal treatment, e.g., pyrolysis, of biomass in oxygen-deficient or oxygen-free environment. Nitrogen containing functional groups of biochar have a wide range of applications, such as adsorption of pollutants, catalysis, and energy storage. To date, many methods have been developed and used to strengthen the function of N-containing biochar to promote its application and commercialization. However, there is no review available specifically on the development of biochar technologies concerning nitrogen-containing functional groups. This paper aims to present a review on fractionation, analysis, formation, engineering, and application of N-functional groups of biochar. The effect of influencing factors on biochar N-functional groups, including biomass feedstock, pyrolysis parameters (e.g., temperature), and additional treatment (e.g., N-doping) were discussed in detail to reveal the formation mechanisms and performance of the N-functional groups. Future prospective investigation directions on the analysis and engineering of biochar N-functional groups were also proposed.