Green Viochar logo with a grey V on a see-through background
Green Viochar logo with a grey V on a see-through background

FAQ

FAQ

Find answers to all your pressing questions about biochar, pyrolysis reactors, and Viochar

Biochar

What is biochar and how does it help fight climate change?

Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich material produced by pyrolysis (heating organic waste in the absence of oxygen). The biochar itself can be used, among others, to improve soil health and agricultural productivity, make cement and asphalt lighter and more durable, or filter environmental pollutants from water. At the same time it locks away carbon for centuries, making it an efficient tool for combatting climate change.

Almost all biomass can be used to make biochar. For our batch reactors, we recommend biomass with low moisture (10-20%) and a particle size of 10mm–60mm. The most obvious biomass to make biochar from is, among other sources:

  • Wood (excess wooden biomass)

  • Agricultural waste (dried plant residues)

  • Garden waste (mixed biomass from gardens)

We have two ways of making biochar: batch reactors and continuous feed rotary kiln reactors. The batch reactor is designed for flexibility, affordability, and ease of use, while the rotary kiln is more complex and is used for industrial scale biochar production.

The main applications for biochar include, but are not limited to:

  • Soil amendment (improves fertility, water retention, and microbial activity)

  • Carbon sequestration (locks carbon in a stable form)

  • Livestock & compost additive (improves nutrient absorption, reduces odors)

  • Water filtration (natural filter medium)

Pyrolysis Reactors

How much biomass can the batch reactor process?

The batch reactor can handle 1.4 m³ of biomass per cycle, equating to 448 m³ per year if run at full capacity.

The rotary kiln reactor can process around 6000 tons of biomass per year, creating roughly 2400 tons of biochar, depending on the feedstock used.

All in all, it takes approximately 12 hours for a full cycle. This includes: loading, starting, pyrolysis, cooling and emptying.

Yes, the batch reactor is designed to be portable. Using a forklift or similar equipment, it can be easily moved.

We’re always looking to start new projects, both domestically and internationally. You can contact us by using our contact form, giving us a call, or finding us on LinkedIn.