Wheat dust and extracted rapeseed scrap biochar: a comprehensive characterization and assessment of potential utilization in the context of the circular economy

In Central Europe, wheat dust (WD) and hexane-extracted rapeseed scrap (RS) are not yet being utilized effectively or in an environmentally sound manner. Consequently, a method was investigated to enable the use of these waste materials in accordance with circular economy principles. First, both types of waste were subjected to pyrolysis, resulting in the production of biochars commonly employed as adsorbents or soil amendments. These biochars were then activated with steam to enhance their properties, after which they were comprehensively characterized. During the characterization, structure, porosity (including specific surface area), nutrient and toxic element contents, the presence of functional groups, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and pH were examined. It was found that RS biochar contains high nutrient concentrations and exhibits a high CEC, making it suitable for soil enrichment. In contrast, WD biochar is characterized by a structure well-suited for the adsorption of organic pollutants, particularly after steam activation. The proposed utilization methods for these biochars support the circular economy, reduce pollution, improve soil properties, and minimize the need for industrially produced fertilizers and sorbents.

Reference:
Kwoczynski, Z., Burdová, H., Al Souki, K.S. et al. Wheat dust and extracted rapeseed scrap biochar: a comprehensive characterization and assessment of potential utilization in the context of the circular economy. Biomass Conv. Bioref. (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13399-025-06524-6

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