Insight into the pyrolysis behavior of the drained Sumatra peat soil and the characteristics of the resulting biochar for carbon dioxide (CO2) capture

This study investigated the potential of drained Sumatra peat soil (SPS) as a feedstock for pyrolysis to produce biofuels and biochar. We used thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), evolved gas analysis coupled with mass spectroscopy (EGA-MS), and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (Py-GCMS) to study the decomposition behavior of SPS and pyrolysis product distribution. We also characterized the biochar (PBS) and assessed its CO2 adsorption capacity. The results reveal that the organic content of SPS can be fully pyrolyzed at temperatures above 500 °C, leaving about 18 wt% of inorganic residues. The pyrolysis process mainly produces hydrocarbons, alcohols, phenols, and acids products, depending on operating temperatures. The biochar has distinct physical and chemical properties and shows remarkable CO2 adsorption capabilities and reusability, where its adsorption capacity is maintained even after six adsorption-desorption cycles. Thus, SPS can be used as a feedstock for biomass-to-energy conversion and biochar creation through pyrolysis, reducing atmospheric carbon levels from peatland degradation.