The effect of olive pomace biochar on some characteristics of Vertisols

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of olive pomace biochar (OB) application on the mechanical, physical and chemical properties of Vertisols. For this study, soil samples classified as Vertisol in Çanakkale, where internal drainage and surface ponding are major problems, were used. The OB was produced at 450°C and then mixed with 0% (control), 3%, 6% and 9% of the soil by weight. Various soil parameters, including the Atterberg limits (liquid limit [LL], plastic limit [PL], plasticity index [PI], shrinkage limit [SL]), saturated hydraulic conductivity ( K sat ), field capacity (FC), total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN), were determined. The values of all the soil parameters increased, except for the PI. Moreover, the K sat value increased by 127% and 136% with 6% and 9% OB application, respectively, compared to that of the control. Additionally, the FC, TN and TC levels in the soils increased in response to biochar application. In conclusion, OB application has a positive effect on the specific properties of Vertisol and can improve its physical properties.