Valorization of date palm residues for biochar production: Assessing biochar characteristics for agricultural application

Date palm residues are abundant in many arid and semi-arid regions, presenting both an environmental challenge and an opportunity for sustainable resource management. This study evaluates the valorization of date palm residues through slow pyrolysis at 500 °C to produce biochar suitable for agricultural soil enhancement. The date palm residues, which consist of 41.95% cellulose, 28.49% hemicellulose, and 26.56% lignin, were processed to yield biochar with a production efficiency of 44.95%. The biochar's physicochemical properties were extensively analyzed, showing a fixed carbon content of 70.74%, a pH of 9.19, and a cation exchange capacity (CEC) of 68.05 cmol/kg. Elemental analysis revealed high carbon (71.9%) and low nitrogen (0.74%) content, indicating its stability and potential for long-term carbon sequestration. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated thermal stability, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a highly porous structure, beneficial for water retention and microbial colonization. These findings demonstrate that the slow pyrolysis process yields biochar with favorable properties, making it a promising amendment for soil fertilization. This study highlights the potential of biochar production in transforming date palm waste into valuable resources while mitigating the environmental impacts and costs associated with its disposal.