Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

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Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/jece

Biochar application as sustainable precursors for enhanced anaerobic

digestion: A systematic review
Zaied Bin Khalid a, Md. Nurul Islam Siddique b, *, Abdullah Nayeem c, Tanveer Mehedi Adyel d,
Shahrul Bin Ismail b, Mohd Zamri Ibrahim b
a
Faculty of Civil Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Gambang, 26300 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
b
Faculty of Ocean Engineering Technology and Informatics, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
c
Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Gambang, 26300 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia
d
Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Editor: Despo Kassinos Anaerobic digestion (AD) is the preferred and promising method used worldwide to manage specific wastes and
waste biomass. The techniques to maximize biogas productions by anaerobic digestion is explicitly introduced to
Keywords: achieve potential reactor operations. An essential consideration for combining anaerobic digestion with biochar
Anaerobic digestion is formed from waste biomass by thermochemical conversion. The latest enhancement work is showing the
Energy recovery
potential biochar results of augmentation of certain chemicals such as biofuels and charcoal, bioethanol, bio­
Biochar properties
diesel, butanol, hydrogen, carboxylic acids, and hydrocarbons. However, there is still a lack of a detailed and
Possible improvement
Recent advances robust interpretation of BC and AD relations. This article aims for systematic reviews on anaerobic digestion
efficacy with the use of biochar. The maximum methane generation using biochar with enhanced AD efficiency
ranges from 650 to 900 mL/d, with organic removal efficiencies varying from 70% to 75%. The major com­
ponents of the biochar usage include hydrolysis, acidogenesis-acetogenesis, and the progression and equilibrium
of methanogenesis are reviewed. Biochar properties provide reasonable conditions for pH adjusting, disinfectant,
complementary sourcing, electron carrier servers, and the expression of physicochemical weights on an organism
through various bacterial communities. Biochar can improve biomethane yield plans for the most part by
chemically moving organisms, methanogen for biomethane yield, growth of microbial groups, and a stimulus for
buffer potential. This article is giving an in-depth discussion of current advances, distinctive difficulties, and
limitations of biochar applications in anaerobic digestion. Future research can focus on biochar’s functions in
acid buffering, acid reduction, and increasing syntropy between hydrolysis and acidogenesis-acetogenesis.

components of biochar, such as high carbon exchange capacity, surface

area, and large porosity [79]. It enables the surface coating to interact
1. Introduction with the precipitation of minerals for deactivation or absorption, com­
plementing the cycle and connecting altered connections between bac­
Biochar, a precursor of activated carbon, has solid carbonaceous terial networks [90]. Biochar materials can eventually promote the
properties, and it is produced through the extraction of oxygen from the syntrophic relationship between bacteria and the anaerobic digester
thermochemical biomass conversion. For example, different forms of methanogens [115]. The efficiency of biochar mixed with ethanol
squanders such as agricultural wastes [3], animal compost [48], wood wastewater inoculated with sludge into an up-flow anaerobic sludge
[20], and waste sludge [28] can be used as raw material for biochar blanket was investigated. According to the study, the conductive ma­
development. Its optimal use in various natural administration parts has terials supported the strengthening of the symbiosis relationship be­
benefited a wide range due to its more environmentally friendly features tween the activity of bacteria and the activity of methanogens for high
and potential elements. Biochar can be utilized for removing pollutants, biogas production [110].
for example, overwhelming metals [27] as well as dangerous chemicals, Anaerobic digestion (AD) is considered a valuable strategy for ma­
i.e., natural color [114], toluene (C7H8) [8], nitrobenzene (C6H5NO2) terials based on carbon that can not only enable sustenance but also
[116] and more. Several important factors are considered the strong

* Correspondence to: Faculty of Ocean Engineering, University Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
E-mail address: [email protected] (Md.N.I. Siddique).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jece.2021.105489
Received 9 February 2021; Received in revised form 2 April 2021; Accepted 8 April 2021
Available online 20 April 2021
2213-3437/© 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Nomenclature HTC Hydrothermal Carbonization

NMR Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
AD Anaerobic Digestion OLR Organic Loading Rate
BET Brunauer-Emmett-Teller Py Pyrolysis
BSG Biomass Steam Gasification RH Rice Husk
CSB Coconut Shell Biochar RHB Rice Husk Biochar
CEC Cation Exchange Capacity SA Surface Area
COD Chemical Oxygen Demand SII Substrate-Induced Inhibition
DIET Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer SSA Specific Surface Area
EC Electrical Conductivity SP Slow Pyrolysis
ER Equivalence Ratio SCFA Short Chain Fatty Acids
ES Elm Sawdust TAN Total Ammonium Nitrogen
FTIR Fourier Transformed Infrared Analysis VFA Volatile Fatty Acids
FP Fast Pyrolysis VM Volatile Matter
FW Food Waste VS Volatile Solid
Gs Gasification WB Wood Biochar

benefit from a variety of organic strata [105], wastewater [87], animal However, the exact mechanism occurring during particle impinge­
manure [12], nutrient supplier [47], and others. The AD procedure is a ment with a surface in the AD phase is still unclear. On the other hand,
natural methodology performed by the consortia of microscopic or­ solid waste disposal is already becoming a daunting challenge in most
ganisms and archaea in anoxic conditions. To convert organic matter developed countries’ in metropolitan areas. If this pollution is not well
into biogas (primarily made up of methane and carbon dioxide), the handled, it can pose a threat to the ecosystem. The influence factors
anaerobic digester should end four consecutive phases incorporating must be regulated and optimized to achieve an effective composting
macromolecular organisms’ division into effectively broken monomers operation [107,108]. Through the AD system for process execution and
at the hydrolysis stage. Fig. 1 is showing a schematic graph of the AD feasible biogas production, the two dedicated conversion forms broaden
process. During the acidogenesis phase, solvent monomers are the pairing of biological and thermochemical conversion processes to
contaminated with micromolecular volatile fatty acids (VFA), alcohol, enhance waste biomass treatment with biochar [73]. In the AD system,
lactic corrosive, etc., Then after the acidogenic items undergo the the anaerobic consortia together undergo biological degradation to
acidogenesis phase become acidic corrosive and changed to H2 again share vitality with hydrogen or electrons’ exchange between two related
[77]. Maintaining the four-stage equation becomes necessary for more species [68]. It has been suggested that natural electrical entities be­
rigidity, and the productivity of the AD structure. The uniformity is tween different species, in fact, directly interspace electron transfer
constantly disrupted by the relentless erosion of wastes [66] and the (DIET) interceptors overlap the H2/format to move electrons during AD
methanogens exercises’ impediment [14]. The shock-loading solidifi­ [54]. Upgrading anaerobic microorganisms by being involved in the
cation process is focused on the impact of ultrafine ceramic particles biochemical complement AD process has become an alternative way to
with a surface. To produce an aerosol, particles are first combined with deal with metabolic practice. The progress has been made in a series of
steam. This low-pressure aerosol is expelled through a nozzle and AD experiments aimed at evaluating the biochar effect in implementing
impacted onto a substrate, forming a thin/thick layer [6]. Much of the the incorporation process. Biochar has already successfully shortened
particle’s kinetic energy is transformed to thermal energy through the start-up period, improving the CH4 generation and reducing the AD
impact with the substrate, creating a rise in temperature at the point of method’s barriers [85]. Taking the experiment one step further, the
impact and facilitating bonding between the substrate and the particles deoxyribonucleic acid sequencing invention has already been deployed
and between several particles [2]. to identify not only for the formation of bacterial networks but also for
the formations affected by biochar expansion. Methanosarcina and
Methanosaeta were developed for methane in various investigations
Complex Organic Matter [45]. Biochar measurements, properties, and molecular size effectively
Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats affect the inoculum and substrate AD’s processing properties.
Over the past few years, there has been a gradual increase in using
Hydrolysis
biochar production. Recent review articles have focused on the reuse of
Soluble Organic Molecules biochar as an advertiser for environmental pollutants [92], tar removal,
Sugar, Amino Acids, Fatty Acids the catalyst for syngas and the biofuel generation and deNOx [40], soil
Acidogenesis amendment [93], etc. Nevertheless, the entire process of biochar pro­
duction, use, and properties were rarely studied, especially in energy
balance and cost-effectiveness investigations and detailed biochar for­
mation methods across different approaches [36]. Due to its compara­
Volatile Fatty Acids
tively wide surface area, Activated Carbon (AC) has been used as an
ingredient in AD systems to improve DIET by having efficient microbial
Acetic Acid Acetogenesis H2 & CO2 attachment [119]. Biochar’s capacity to enhance DIET is comparable to
AC [58,117], but its conductivity is around 1000 times lower [106]. This
Methanogenesis

Methanogenesis

means DIET can be induced by electrical conductivity that is very low.

When some of the biochar’s unique properties can be used in the same
CH4 + CO2 application, it is favored. Low density, substantial adsorption and cation
Methane + Carbon Dioxide exchange capability, and the potential to promote living microbiology
and enhance their action are unique properties of biochar [1]. When
Fig. 1. Graphical presentation of the anaerobic digestion system. these features are mixed, a predictable selection criterion for using

2
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

activated carbons versus biochar appears. process in the following three ways: (i) by inhibitor sorption, (ii) by
An apparent increase in biochar applications to develop AD was increasing the process buffering efficiency, and (iii) by microbial cells.
identified in an investigation by Science Direct, illustrating the emer­ Apart from these, the use of biochar can be further intensified to increase
gence of research options in wastewater treatment, as shown in Fig. 2. the digestive level. Expansion of biochar in digestion will have a bene­
To provide helpful information and data on the use of biochar in the ficial effect on nutrient conservation, improve carbon/nitrogen ratio,
development of the biogas industry, this paper demonstrates a and reduce nutrient filtration after the application of digestate mixtures
comprehensive and front-line literature survey on biochar’s growth (Fig. 3).
through the AD method. Thus, the effect of biochar on various adver­ Innovative thermochemical transformation for biomass treatment
tising systems was concentrated directly. At this point, biochar’s work to includes pyrolysis, gasification, hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), etc.
overcome process insecurity was illustrated. Also, there was discussion These three processes are fundamentally remarkable in terms of the
of possible measures for the positive potential of biochar. This review’s reaction requirements of 650–100 K in the pyrolysis method, 350–550 K
keynote was to understand existing data holes, just as the improvement in the HTC method, and 900–1500 K in the gasification method. These
of marking systems with the application of biochar in the flow explores methods can produce significant value, including burning pyrolysis oil,
levels, to guide future investigations to implement AD and to move syngas, and liquid pyrolysis, rather than biomass conversion to solid
forward with efficiency limitations. carbonaceous substances [94]. Biochar refers primarily to pyrolysis for
significant consequences, although the vital ingredients are separately
2. The theoretical background of biochar properties known as hydrochar if present both in HTC and gasification system.
Thus, in most cases, the current review emphasizes biochar production
2.1. Biochar production from a mesoporous material through the pyrolysis process. Biochar is
now considered a good additive for AD development as a provision for
Biochar production is a process known as pyrolysis, where a small bacterial colonization, absorbent materials to inhibit hydrophobicity,
amount of oxygen is reduced by heat in an organic way [22]. In pyrol­ simple intersected electron conductors to be removed, and reactive for
ysis, organic matter volatility decreases as pores’ scale and organic biogas yield [21]. The effectiveness of the above potential effects de­
matter composition increases [57]. Various aspects, such as biomass pends mainly on the biochar properties, such as debris content, surface
retention duration, biomass properties, and other functional parameters, area (SA), and porous structure. Depending on the organization of the
can influence the final biochar composition. Biochar has also been debris content in the biochar, the first experience with the AD structure
identified as black carbon, is actually "combustion of black particles with can expand the antacids and follow the metallic focus, requesting
carbon graphite microstructures" [22]. Despite widespread, carbona­ beneficial effects on process execution [78]. The available forms of
ceous, and uninterrupted carbon content, biochar has varied ever since biochar and SA have been identified as accessible to microbial envi­
it was formed at temperatures below 700 degrees Celsius [80]. However, ronments. However, these physicochemical properties of biochar are
this makes biochar surface areas less efficient than carbon activation, uncomfortable according to its feedstock source and pyrolysis
where biochar production is relatively affordable. Contaminated water temperature.
and land are being considered for disinfection and biochar material to Multiple studies were conducted by focusing on the biochemical
refer to the progress of plant development. In addition to the apparent characteristics of fluctuations with different pyrolysis operational pa­
benefits of plant growth and cleaning up polluted environments, biochar rameters, and various types of general normalization could be appro­
can also help with carbon loading, thus establishing the inconsistency of priately focused. The comparative assessment of surface area pattern,
environmental pollution [63]. The biochar material becomes stable, and pH, and VM content was observed with compost-based biochar pyro­
the excess carbon storage equals progress, guaranteeing the uninter­ lyzed at 350 ◦ C and 700 ◦ C [10]. Biochar SA was generally different
rupted power of carbon and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Re­ from the various raw material forms. In context, the ideal wood biochar
searchers have not yet fully explored the use of biochars such as carbon area was estimated at 650 ◦ C, was 255 m2/g [64]. However, the biochar
adsorbents by AD. However, it is not only the AD process’s functional area from swine manure and poultry litter was 51 m2/g [10]. A limited
stability and is more likely to have a progressive effect [65]. Further­ amount of extracted fertilizer-based biochar can be quickly deposited
more, it may be suggested to reduce the substrate-induced limitation to into mature, non-perishable substances. Lignin in low cellulose will
continuous biochar expansion during AD to increase the visibility of the induce biochar production with the slow development of the aromatic
structure [71]. Considering the biochar properties and the absorption
900 limit of soybean stove pyrolysis at 300 ◦ C and 700 ◦ C and the absorption
limit of trichloroethylene collected from the limitation of the biochar
784
800 Research supplied at 700 ◦ C was due to the high concentration of perfume [3].
Review
Polymer co-pyrolysis with rice straw will produce carbon material, pH
700 Others
Total estimation, CEC, and biochar SA due to the intense hydrogen and the
Publication Number

600 synergistic effect of the polymers’ carbon substance. Although poly­

525 mers’ co-pyrolysis have not significantly altered biochar’s reactant
500 function with rice straw, it suggests an aromatic surface and structure,
functional catalytic collections are theoretically responsible, and elec­
400 359
332 trons pass through them may be essential for biochar position [67].
300 Stable carbon and high lignin-containing feedstocks are suitable for the
243
pyrolysis process to supply high surface areas as well as fine aromatic
188
200 structured biochar. A fundamental parameter and temperature can
121
84 control the biochar properties and can drive higher temperatures to
100 64
26 43 higher surfaces and lower CEC, however, exceeding a certain tempera­
7
0 ture can also cause the structures to collapse. The temperatures between
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 450 ◦ C and 600 ◦ C, depending on the type of waste, make most biochar
Year
generation aggregate in terms of financial feasibility [94].
Fig. 2. Statistics of Published works (2010–2021) on anaerobic digestion sys­
tem for biochar applications in wastewater treatment (directory of Science
Direct for the quest “biochar in anaerobic digestion” in all subject fields).

3
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Biochar in Anaerobic
Digestion

pH
Biochar
Anaerobic
Inhibitors Heavy Metals Digester
-Cell
Biomass Immobilization
-Adsorption
-Alkalinity
Other Nutrients N&P
Biofuel
Digestate
and Biochar
Cell Biomass

Slow Release Increased

of Nutrients to Biogas
Plants Production

Fig. 3. The prospective of biochar application in increasing anaerobic digestion and the digestate quality.

2.2. Biochar characterization biochar are based on inorganic content feedstock. Some inorganic spe­
cies’ natural origin may be formed under hydrothermal conditions, may
Biochars have been found by heating biomass residues with unrea­ play a role in inorganic, biological degradation. If acceptable anions
sonably low oxygen concentrations [74]. The temperature should be (such as phosphate and carbonate) were present, Ca’s precursors could
within 180 and − 950 ◦ C, avoiding biomass ignition as well as the be formed under hydrothermal conditions [17]. The function of silica is
advancement of biochar arrangement. The practical uses concerning its to form molecular carbon bonds, do not break down quickly, even at
utilization are waste management and carbon storage and fuel. For a gaseous temperature. The high content of ash can result in a solution
long time, biochar has taken advantage of encouraging environmentally containing higher inorganic compounds and pH. The pH content of the
friendly consequences due to an activated carbon alternative, as effec­ reactors was calculated at the end of the HTL process. The decomposi­
tive as other forms for its maximum yield expenditure. Moreover, the tion of organic acids and carbonates through the HTL process releases
circular economic perception develops as a required way, utilizing alkaline salts into the ash and raises the product’s pH [15,50]. The
low-value materials as agricultural development and a financial benefit functional groups of the biochar’s oxygenated acidic surface are the
can be accomplished with environmental preferences [112]. A ther­ active binding sites for the synthesis process derived from the macro­
mochemical pretreatment can be easily used to allow progress with the molecules of the macroalgae. The biochar surface properties of macro­
residue’s physical and chemical properties. Furthermore, based on the algae depend on the operational process and the properties of the raw
specific production method, the biochar characteristics can be easily materials. The biochars obtained from macroalgae usually have limited
adjusted by changing the pretreatment of the particular application’s surface area, as stated in other research [42]. The surface area increases
working conditions. According to recent literary investigations, there is after following the HTL process due to the adherence of volatile sub­
a fundamental significance and valid consideration regarding biochar stances formed from the macroalgae material of cellulose and hemicel­
characterisation criteria [13]. Most Important considerations are needed lulose [72].
to correctly identify the possibilities of its use within the specific use of
biochar. Surface and porosity properties and chemical and electrical
properties can take the essential parts. The most controlling conditions 2.3. Biochar utilization
are dampness, temperature, length of treatment, and rate of warmth.
Table 1 describes in detail the various functional parameters and the Biochar can be sorted effortlessly from a wealth of resources using a
thermochemical treatments associated with common conversion thermo-chemical process with extensive application reasonably and
products. profitably. Combining with its distinct features such as medium to the
The increased content of carbohydrates and ash will result in higher large surface area, larger porous size, long-lasting firmness, and
biochar yields. The high carbon content of the biochar sample was the improved surface utility removal, biochar is used for many purposes
result of HTL state condensation and carbonization reaction. The ratios such as wastewater treatment, the precursor of catalysts, soil correction,
of H/C and O/C in the biochar sample during the HTL reaction were soil additives, and composites for vitality. Table 2 fully outlines its in­
reduced by demethylation and decarboxylation [44]. Biomass and terests and disadvantages for different biochar applications. The
experimental process and effective maintenance of the material through

Table 1
Standard working conditions for biochar formation techniques (Kambo et al., 2015).
Treatment Temperature (◦ C) Residence time Heating Rate (◦ C/min) Typical product yield (%)

Solid Liquid Gases

Slow pyrolysis 300–650 5 min – 12 h 10–30 25–35 20–30 25–35

Gasification 600–900 10 – 20 s 50–100 < 10 <5 > 85
HTC 180–260 5 min – 12 h 5–10 45–70 5–25 2–5

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Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Table 2
Initial pros and cons of different biochar applications.
Application Purpose Advantages Disadvantages Reference

Catalyst Cleaning of Syngas and Simple to reuse as reinforced metal, co-catalyst and it is Relatively low usefulness and little [113,18,38,
biodiesel yield low cost in operation rough resistance for marketable 60]
catalyst
Soil amendment Improvement of soil quality and Less costly, workable resource, good water retention, and Probable heavy metal contaminant [109,41,90]
carbon sequestration nutrient decrease consumption of fertilizer, diminish
GHG outflow, nutrient losses
Adsorbents Organic pollutants adsorption Low cost, plenteous and sustainable reserve and biochar Adequacy of organic or inorganic [29,4,69]
and heavy metals display in surface enable adsorption by oxygenated groups pollutants remediation is still
water and soil questionable, and tirelessness of
heavy metals
Fuel cell Fuel for fuel cell Renewable fuel energy compared with coal High ash substance, generally low [5]
power and voltage yield
Storage material Carbon dioxide sequestration Less costly, plenteous and feasible resource, high Necessitate surface treatment [24]
and hydrogen storage recyclability
Activated carbon Precursor for making activated Less costly, abundant and sustainable resource Properties change with distinctive [24]
carbon antecedents, do not yield chosen
granular or round activated carbon
Additives for anaerobic Upgrading mineralization of Huge particular surface zone, permeability, and a large The hazard of presenting heavy ([35]; Zhang
digestion or carbon and change in the number of operational groups diminishing the GHG metals and organic contaminants into et al., 2014)
composting bacterial community assemble emissions and loss of total nitrogen, high nitrogen soil
retention and great stabilization of heavy metals
Electrochemical energy Utilized as effective electrodes Less costly, renewable materials, bigger surface zone, Possible low performance [75]
storage material wealthy permeability, captivating biomass structures
(such as various levelled organization, intermittent
design or a few extraordinary nanoarchitectures)

low-cost wide implementation related to other chemical processes are of biochar in agriculture (Fig. 4).
considered the desirable biochar feature. However, much of their early- Effluent sludge emissions from AD are a way to treat carbon-based
stage performance can now be found outstandingly in fantastic appli­ pollutants as expensive, environmentally sustainable, and contain
cations. It is recommended to implement an advanced study on biogas’ biogas. AD biogas production typically involves 50–70% CH4, 30–50%
effects in the intervening 10% of biogas effects on biogas yield because CO2, and minimal amounts of H2S and NH3 [86]. Detailed processing of
no more biochar dose from Torrefied Biomass Steam Gasification (BSG) Pinewood Biochar (PWBC), White Oak (WOBC), and Corn Stover (CSBC)
for biogas yield progression is displayed [19]. In addition, due to the is to enable biogas yield in anaerobic reactors. Both of these were used to
digestion process of biogas, the effect on bacterial activity, and the increase the yield levels of biochar, the yield of biogas, and increase the
overall biogas output due to physicochemical interactions with biogas efficiency of anaerobic reactor processes [85]. The improved methane
components, the biogas application instrument is advised to explore. generation in biochar added digesters was ascribed to a few amplifica­
Further research may reflect BSG and other types of biochar applications tions to the evacuation of CO2, H2S, and NH3 through their physico­
for organic waste absorption as it reveals modern methods of increasing chemical contact with biochar. CO2 production in AD with biochar
biogas production and the unutilized potential for co-use and digestion application was changed over to HCO-3/CO2- 3 buffer by responding with

Biochar
Production
Torrefier

GRID

Animal
Feedstock
GRID

Heat
Energy
GRID

e ld Electricity
as Yi Generation
Biog
Organic Biogas
GRID

Waste Plant
Biog
as Yi
e ld Heat
Dig Electricity
GRID
Digestate

Air Pollution
e s ta Generation
te +
bio
c har
GRID

Composting Agriculture Agriculture

Fig. 4. The new technique to the utilization of organic waste due to interactive combination of both organic waste torrefaction and anaerobic digestion procedure as
a possible impression of an increase in biogas production, heat utilization from biogas recycle in codigestion units and implementing novel organic fertilizer
comprehending biochar and the digestate.

5
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

biochar discharged soluble base and soluble mixtures and NH3 [86]. H2S 3.1. Biochar effects on the hydrolysis
is a deep destructive compound and can be expelled by biochar begun
when it had been ingested on biochar, taken after by an arrangement of Hydrolysis, which is considered the macromolecular conversion of
oxidative responses to HS-, SO or SO2-
4 [37]. In addition to the growth of natural substances to solvents, is at an early stage of the complex AD
methanogenic and acetogenic bacteria in the biochar modified diges­ process. Hydrolysis will be controlled to treat low biodegradable sub­
tate, improved biogas yields are subsidized made one year long with two strates, for example, sewage pellets, smooth squanders, and lignocellu­
stages AD having biochar application for completely getting it long-term losic biomass [11]. However, due to the potential for specific
improvement of bacteriological community associating with the biochar methanogenic action, a more extended maintenance period and a more
use. The reactor studied with biochar progressed plenitude of acetogenic significant reactor are required to break down hard-decomposing layers
class Firmicutes (basically Clostridia) and methanogenic class Meth­ adequately. This technique is used to simplify the efficiency of hydro­
anosarcina [85]. During the exposure of carbohydrates to manure sludge electricity by adding heat pretreatment, electrical, agricultural, and
in Clostridia, the diversion of acetic acid was absorbed into the bio­ microwave. Both pretreatment strategies rely on the initiation and
methane by Methanosarcina. Biofilm interior presentation contributes enhancement of hydrolytic compounds [49], the littler molecule’s size,
to the growth and collective strength of the two microbe groups. and a more expansive interaction zone of substrates [111]. The
The improvement in biomethane production in AD was detailed in mentioned capabilities can be recognized by the introduction of sub­
various investigations. Shen et al. [86] utilized white oak wood and stances associated with the furnace medium. After characterization of a
pinewood biochar being as added substances in biogas yield from sludge surprisingly clear surface area, small grain size, the multi-layered
through the AD process. Biochar expansion has increased the bio­ structure of clinoptilolite, it can synthesize huge natural things on its
methane content in biogas from white oak wood biochar and pinewood own, thus improving the growth of microorganisms, considering the
biochar by 79.0% and 92.3%, respectively. The sequence of CO2 in destruction of natural carbon through the process of AD [99].
producing the biogas of these two biochars increased by 32.4% and With finely accessible compositions in mixtures with great electrical
66.2%, respectively, and NH3 improved during the biogas yield [91]. conductivity, biochar can reduce natural problems by controlling mi­
Other analysts have identified H2 and CH4 yield increases, produced by crobial and increasing cell density. During ooze’s AD, Shen et al. [88]
applying biochar expansion through AD of carbohydrate nutrient feed­ saw a big rise in digestate COD inside biochar’s sight, showing bio
stock, by 31.0% and 10.0%, respectively. Also, biochar expansion yiel­ decomposition of natural substrates. It increased hydrolysis of organic
ded VFA without improved H2 and CH4 yields, calculated by biochar as matter in the vicinity of biochar during the underlying AD, repetition of
transitory substratum plus pH control for microbial digestion formation. higher carbon content breaks down natural carbon with isolated inor­
ganic carbon digest [59]. Syntro-phomondaceae and Sedimentibacter
3. Biochar application in anaerobic digestion Tissierella are generally recognized as dynamic for sugar growth and
hydrolysis, were included in the biochemical digester [25]. In the
Feasible and controlled settings can be upgraded to achieve insta­ bacteriological electrolysis cell system for the treatment of reactive
bility in AD strategies, but achieving such instability can be annoying to waste glass, electrically synthetic organic matter was found to have the
the contrary if the substrate metabolic properties are resistant to bac­ capacity to quicken anodic oxidation, composed with the enhanced
terial action inside the reactor. Fagbohungbe et al. [22] surveyed the hydrolysis technique. Yang and Wang [102] credited the hydrolysis
trials with AD. He recommended the expansion of biochars that could progress to hydrolases’ actuation, for example, cellulose, protease, α
moderate stratified-induced variability through three separate pro­ glucosidase, and biochar amylase. Thus, macromolecular biological
cesses. These include receptor assimilation, increased AD buffering po­ accessibility for further hydroelectricity was extended. Also, the action
tential, and microbial cell discontinuity. Table 3 provides a pictorial of dextranase, protease and lipase is influenced by biochar. Further in­
view of biochar’s application in AD, showing the profound effects of spection of hydrolase’s functional properties indicates a large number of
biochar to be included in the AD operation. The features are described is dextrous and proteases in the biochar. The addition of biochar can
prior use of biochar as an advertiser throughout the AD cycle. These are certainly stimulate and improve the hydrolytic germs by the available
surface microstructure, pore size and volume, ion-exchange capacity, action; the actual effectiveness of the hydrolysis action by biochar in­
and hydrophobicity. The promotion of stabilizing Biochar bacteria, volves legitimacy.
advancing biofilm technologies, improving cation exchange, increasing
AD alkalinity, and allowing electrical conduction is recognized as an 3.2. Biochar effects on acidogenesis and acetogenesis
additional Biochar feature in promoting DIET cycles leading to AD
activation. These properties are enhanced by the evaporation of the There is a difference between the isolation of the acetogenesis phase
vapour mixture from the pyrolysis biomass. Pyrolytic is more volatile from the acid regeneration. The purpose is to produce layers and be
with increasing temperature. Thus, driving should be disconnected, and easily used by methanogens such as CH3COO-, H2/CO2 HCOO- and
perforation should be made on a strong biochar microstructure. When -CH3. By the process of acetogenesis, germicidal acid hydrolysates
the increase in temperature is not measured, and the volatilization (sugars, fatty acids, and amino acids) are converted to VFA, NH3, and
moves towards the ideal level, a more extensive decrease in the pore BET alcohol, etc. Propionate, lactate, and CH3OH break down into easily
surface area can be observed. converted compounds by acetogenesis and then precisely converted to
AD is an innovative method for the treatment of organic waste CH4 [43]. Larger concentrations of VFAs, which are the background of
through bacterial and archaea groups. However, this method also con­ biomethane, continue to increase biomethane production. However,
tains some captives and is significantly detectable in biomass AD and issuing VFA above an effective concentration will lower the pH and
tends to accumulate acid or ammonia. Due to the high concentration of disrupt bacterial activity, resulting in lower reactor efficiency [98]. The
ammonia nitrogen, biochar expansion can advance the internal elastic­ integrity of VFAs is closely related to the properties of the layers. AD is
ity system to a certain extent. Moreover, at high OLRs, biochar effective often affected by excess deposits, such as nitrogen ratios and activated
VFAs inhibit the assemblage limit. Biochar is used at the bacteriological carbon. For the simple decomposable biomass having a high C/N pro­
level for cell instability and bacteriological growth in the AD system. portion like food waste (FW), the VFA accumulation is acquainted
Significant SSA and porous biochar structures promote syntrophic ace­ during the AD procedure [103]. For accomplishing practical fermenta­
togenic colonization of bacteria and methanogenic archaea, enabling tion of acid, several methods have been tried earlier by scientists. Li et al.
complete organic carbon elimination and AD’s reaction rate. Biochar [46] performed anaerobic codigestion (ACoD) of apple pulp with animal
expansion can also strengthen DIET between the methanogen group in manures, which circumvents the accumulation of VFAs during animal
the AD system and the syntrophic acetogen. manure’s anaerobic mono digestion. The optimistic outcome of ACoD

6
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Table 3
Various biochar applications and effects on the anaerobic digestion process.
Biochar Formation states Feed wastewater AD operating Effects of biochar References
conditions

Coconut Pyrolysis at 600 ◦ C Cow manure Batch at 38 ◦ C Cumulative methane yield was enhanced by 11.48% with [84]
coconut shell biochar (319.44 vs. 282.77 mL/g VS).
Wheat bran pellets, coppiced Pyrolysis at 800, 500 Food waste Batch AD at 5 times more within the total methanogenic transformation
woodlands, and orchard and 500 ◦ C, fermentation 20 ± 2 ◦ C rate of VFAs. Removing the slack phase before the VFAs
pruning respectively degradation.
Biochar Pyrolysis at 550 ◦ C Sulfate-laden CSTR reactor Over 98% H2S was eliminated, and reactor stability was [70]
wastewater operation at improved by biochar application
35 ◦ C
Sawdust Pyrolysis at 500 ◦ C Dewatered activated Batch AD at Biomethane generation expanded; lag phase abbreviated; [95]
sludge and food 35 ◦ C biochar favoured high rate of organic loading; enhanced
waste buffering potentials reduce pH diminish beneath expanded
VFA accumulation
Sawdust Pyrolysis at 500 ◦ C Food waste and Batch AD at The lag phase was reduced; expanded biomethane yield [47]
waste activated 55 ◦ C rate; high rate of organic loading with no prompt restraint
sludge advanced; microbes adjustment to high VFA accumulation
enabled through pH alteration with biochar; DIET process
enhanced
Pine sawdust Pyrolysis at 650 ◦ C Food waste Batch AD at Biochar altogether expanded greatest generation rates of [91]
35 ◦ C biomethane and hydrogen; slack stage was reduced; biochar
upgraded VFA arrangement in hydrogen stage and VFA
accumulation in biomethane stage
Vermicompost Pyrolysis at 500 ◦ C Kitchen waste (KW) Batch AD at Great advancement of buffering potentials to VFAs. [97]
/Chicken manure 35 ± 1 ◦ C Upgrading the beginning and treatment of solidity during
(CM) the digestion of cattle manure at a strong organic loading.
Reducing severe fermentation during digestion of kitchen
waste
Hardwood Pre-dissolved at Cow dung Batch AD at Methane production was increased to double when [71]
55 ◦ C 55 ◦ C compared to the control (223–110 L/kg VS), and pH and
alkalinity was raised significantly
Coconut shell, Rice husk and Pyrolysis at 450 ◦ C Citrus peel Batch AD at The lag phase was reduced; a slight increment in methane [23]
Wood 35 ◦ C production; increased methanogens gatherings; expanded
removal proficiency
Fruitwood Pyrolysis at Glucose, yeast Batch AD at The lag phase was reduced; expanded CH4 yield rate in spite [55]
800–900 ◦ C extract 35 ◦ C of expanded NH4 concentration past ordinary limits;
colonization of Methanosarcina
Fruitwood Pyrolysis at 800 ◦ C Glucose, yeast Batch AD at The lag phase was reduced; expanded CH4 yield rate; the [58]
extract 35 ◦ C extent of Archaea higher compared to control; particular
improvement of useful organisms endorsed with biochar;
upgraded intermediate acids degradation
Fruitwood Pyrolysis at Food wastes Batch AD at Reducing the lag phase and progressing the most extreme [9]
800–900 ◦ C 35 ◦ C biomethane yield rate. Improving the digestion rate of VFAs
and dissolved organics
Dried brewer’s spent grain Pyrolysis at 300 ◦ C Brewer’s spent grain Batch AD at Increment in biogas yield rate and greatest biogas yield [19]
37 ◦ C
Rice straw pre-treated with Pyrolysis at 500 ◦ C The organic fraction Batch AD at Methane generation expanded; high dose of biochar intend (Qin et al.,
FeCl3 of municipal solid 35 ◦ C to the decrease of methane production; VFA not effectively 2017)
waste changed over to methane, thus, low methane yield
compared to control; no fermentation phenomenon;
progressed methanogenic bacterial community clustering
Wheat straw Pyrolysis at 450 and Chicken manure Batch at 35 ◦ C A remarkable improvement of 69% in methane yield was [71]
550 ◦ C achieved, and total ammonia nitrogen removal efficiency
was increased by biochar application
Canola meal, switchgrass, and Pyrolysis at Pure glucose Batch AD at Expanding biomethane yield and lessening the lag time [81]
Ashe juniper 400–900 ◦ C /aqueous phase of 37 ± 1 ◦ C essential for biomethane production
bio-oil
Pyrochar from Paper sludge Pyrochar at 500 ◦ C Ammonium Batch AD at No strong impact of pyrochar on biogas yield rate; [65]
and wheat husk & & Hydrochar at carbonate 42 ◦ C Hydrochar expanded biomethane yield rate; Hydrochar and
Hydrochar from wheat 230 ◦ C Pyrochar anticipated gentle alkali hindrance but fizzled on a
straw better concentration of ammonia
Woody biomass Pyrolysis at The organic fraction Batch AD at Hydrogen production improved with improved biochar [83]
400–500 ◦ C of municipal solid 37 ◦ C dosing; ammonia toxicity was lessened with the addition of
waste biochar; biochar lessened lag phase
Waste sludge dairy manure Pyrolysis at Waste activated Batch AD at The process for adsorption of heavy metal on biochar was [27]
400–800 ◦ C sludge 35 ◦ C recognized; biochar endorsed Lead adsorption
Dairy manure Pyrolysis at 350 ◦ C Dairy manure Batch AD at The existence of biochar improved biomethane production [32]
20 ◦ C, 35 ◦ C, at all temperature condition of anaerobic digestion; Lag
55 ◦ C phase reduced; VFA accumulation reduced
Corn stover Pyrolysis at Sewage sludge Batch AD at Biomethane concentration > 90% was achieved 86.3% [87]
600–900 ◦ C 55 ◦ C carbon dioxide was detached from biogas yield; biochar
improved biomethane production
Corn stover pine Pyrolysis at Sewage sludge Batch AD at Biochar enhanced substrate utilization, biomethane [85]
600–900 ◦ C 55 ◦ C production, and process steadiness; biochar improved
macro- and micronutrients
(continued on next page)

7
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Table 3 (continued )
Biochar Formation states Feed wastewater AD operating Effects of biochar References
conditions

Woodcutting and Rice husk Pyrolysis at 600 ◦ C Pig manure Batch AD at Ammonium nitrogen adsorption improved over biochar [39]
35 ◦ C with a rise in retention time, pH and temperature
Pine Pyrolysis at 800 ◦ C Oil Batch at 35 and Approximately 13% and 33% increment in methane
55 ◦ C production was achieved under mesophilic and
thermophilic condition by powdered biochar application

can be identified as the required carbon/nitrogen ratio of the remaining can be accomplished by encouraging acidic erosion and its rate of
nitrogen and carbohydrate percentages and co-layers. It also tends to change. Strategies have been employed around promoting hydrolysis.
have a stable interface between VFA, NH3, and alkalinity. Cationic Acidogenesis/Acetogenesis is only effective for developing CH4 yields,
polyacrylamide waste has prevented the integration of short-chain fatty as it is an abundant complementary source of methane. In any case, for
acids (SCFAs) due to limited sludge solubilization with their degradation techniques that rely on changes in the properties of absorbent layers, for
by retaining the active sludge edges. The reduced bacterial group range example, co-processing and pretreatment, inorganic use with organic
produced the enzyme activity’s inhibitory effect responsible for pro­ substances are great for improving complementary conversion effi­
ducing SCFAs [52]. In contrast, the production of SCFAs was improved ciency [89]. The AD method has been used extensively in planning to
by sulfamethazine, resulting in useful sludge dissolution produced by enhance biochar CH4 yield as an alternative treatment agent. The
both cell coating and superior solubility of extruded polymeric sub­ application of Japanese cedar charcoal in the treatment of AD completes
stances. It also promotes anaerobic useful germs for acetic acid pro­ the production of unrefined glycerol and waste clay in CH4 production
duction [30]. less than in charcoal furnaces. The CH4 shape was stabilized by charcoal
The results of previous investigations indicate an active microbial in at a relatively high stacking rate of 2.1 g COD/L/D [100]. Mumme et al.
the AD process is essential for the continuous process of acidogenesis [65] investigated the impact of roasting on the yield of CH4 at 42 ◦ C
and acetogenesis. Due to hydrolysis by biochar, it can perform the during group AD [65]. The layer of inoculum assimilation was cut from a
acidogenesis-acetogenesis regulator to produce suitable carbon-based 42 ◦ C biogas plant and used as raw material for maize, slurry for dairy
acids. Watanabe et al. [100] utilized Japanese cedar charcoal with a cattle, and silage for paddy. For pyrolysis, a specific temperature range
porosity of 50 µm as a further substance in the AD reactor to treat of 500 ◦ C for petrochemicals produced from a mixture with pyrolysis
wastewater sludge and crude glycerol at the temperature of 35 ◦ C. was obtained, with a pyrolysis ratio of 2:1 (v/v). The hydrochar was
Whether charcoal was used or not, the main VFA accumulation in each made from a thermophilic wheat straw digest using the aquatic
VF was I-butyric acid, propionic, and acetic. The amount of propionic carbonization method at 230 ◦ C. Both roasts were used in the inoculum
acid in the charcoal digester was low, with a high acetic I-butyric acid in a ratio of 6.67% based on their mass. No reasonable effect of CH4
concentration. Food waste moves in two steps of clean aquatic carbo­ production was observed for pyrochemical, but hydrochar was added
hydrates at 35 ◦ C, [91] observed more VFAs production from a 32% increment to CH4 yield. Mumme et al. ascribed the distinction in
biochar-added mixture in hydrogen yield than not using biochar. The upgrading CH4 generation to the division of anaerobically decompos­
main VFA of the digester with biochar of 8.3 g/L is acetic and butyric able carbon [65]. It was smaller in hydrochar than the wholesaler from
acid. In contrast, propionic acid managed to add both acids to high 10.4% of all carbon outs to 0.6% of all carbon.
biochar deposits (16.6, 25.1 and 33.3 g / L). It concludes with a large Luo et al. [58] studied 0.5–1 mm biochar (at 800 ◦ C fruitwoods py­
proportion of NADH / NAD+ after a high amount of biochar is added rolysis) to anaerobic digesters worked in batch mode at 35 ◦ C. For each
with a small amount of acidogenesis. Meanwhile, propionic acid further glucose concentration, digesters were vaccinated with squashed parti­
forms NAD+. Its digestion began naturally to maintain a stable cles (1 g VS / L) and 4, 6, and 8 g/L glucose, and biochar expansion
NADH/NAD+ ratio. Due to the acidity of the batch of citrus husks and resulted in a decrease in slack methanogenesis stage by 11.4%, 30.3%,
sewage slashes at mesophilic temperatures, biochar additives are found and 21.6%, respectively. It increased the most intense CH4 formation
to increase all concentrations of acetic, propionic, and butyric acids output by 86.6%, 21.4%, and 5.2%, respectively, although there is no
throughout the early AD cycle when methanogenic bacteria do not begin biochar for digestion. In contrast, the use of 75 µm biochar of short slack
to accumulate VFAs [61]. Waste adverts from long-prepared foods cycles and improved methane yield is slightly higher than the 2–5 mm
(mostly fish, meat, and vegetables) with mesophilic temperatures were and 0.5–1 mm biochar protocol. Different types of biochar and the effect
added to the biochar amount of 0.25 g/d of the improved CH5COOH of biochar on the Eddie citrus strip loss group operated at 35 ◦ C have
generation of CH3COOH generation in the early stages of the AD pro­ been examined [23]. Initially, coconut shell biochar (CSB), wood bio­
cess. Wang et al. [96] tested ACoD at 35 ◦ C for dewatered food waste char (WB), and rice husk biochar (RHB) are added to a molecular size of
and sewage sludge is known to be mesophilic. Effects on the processing 1.7–2.0 mm citrus strip: large parched depending on all with a mixing
of twelve types of biomass obtained from straw, sewage sludge, wheat ratio of 1:1 wt. The results indicate the highest CH4 formation of CSB
germ, and groundnut husk. The results of this study show that biochar success. At the same time, the shortest slack stage was launched in WB.
addition has effectively improved VFA production. But Butyrate led the WB at biochar ratios of 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, and 2:1 were used in parallel with
assemblage to a water sludge pyrolyzed improvement from 700 ◦ C via the test conditions of different citrus strips and showed the bacterial
biochar and acetate led to all other additional assemblies. Although the slack stage expanded with decreasing biochar range. [91] considered the
effects of biochar on acidogenesis-acetogenesis become inconsistent, pine sawdust biochar’s effect at 650 ◦ C on the development of CH4 in
there are fluctuations compared to different types of biochar as well as two-stage fluid sugars AD. The test reactors were built at different bio­
digestion levels. Thus, the efficiency of biochar can be said to affect the char expansion ratios and control reactors without biochar at 35 ◦ C.
acidogenesis-acetogenesis stage to increase the yield of biogas only Overall CH4 production has been increased by 8.3 g/L; in contrast,
through the applied acetate. 16.6 g/L biochar expansion, while in societies with 25.1 and 33.3 g/L
biochar expansion, has been reduced, contrasted, and controlled. A 6%
increase in 8.3 g/L biochar expansion led to the most significant pro­
3.3. Biochar effects on methanogenesis duction of CH4. In comparison, the lowest was a 13% increase in biochar
of 33.3 g/L. However, biochar expansion at all fixed locations was
Acidogenic-acetogenic items are carefully converted to CH4 in shortened by 41–45% at the slack stage of CH4 production. [71]
anaerobic methanogenesis. Improvement of acetolactic methanogenesis

8
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

researched the effect of various kinds of biochar on group AD of chicken pinewood biochar, produced more CH4 (2.68% expansion) than the
compost directed at 35 ± 1 ◦ C. Fruitwood, dried chicken, and wheat control. In thermophilic and mesophilic AD, the standard CH4 percent­
straw manure were to be produced at 450 ◦ C, 550 ◦ C, and 350 ◦ C, age in biogas was near biochar at 9% and up to 92.3%. A short time later,
respectively, for biochar production with a proportion of 5% of chicken thermophilic AD examination was scaled up for manure ooze with and
manure in each test furnace. The reactors were equipped with nine types without corn stover biochar and pinewood biochar to semi-ceaseless
of biochar, and all produced a better number of CH4 than the controls activity utilizing two-arrange digester frameworks [85]. In contrast to
without biochar. The average total yield of methane induced by fluid pinewood, the corn stover biochar indicates the use of the substrate, CH4
biochar at 550 ◦ C was 294 mL/g VSD and 69% higher than fuel. This profitability, and the unparalleled potential to advance the power of the
was considered to be the weakest effect on the total methane production process. In a robust environment accountable for biochar corn stover,
and capacity of 214 mL/g VSadded obtained at 550 ◦ C of the chicken 95% CH4 (with 0.34 L/g) produced, 25% individually and 37% more
compost biochar with an 23% improvement. than biochar control. If the results-led research project is tempting,
subsequent observations about the extent of in-situ biochar cleaning are
marginal. The theoretical advantage of the optimal development of
3.4. Biochar effects on biogas purification
methane in biogas is hydrogenotrophic methanogen which reduces
carbon dioxide [87]. The answer is derived from the syntrophic part­
Biochar has been improved with the development of pipeline mate­
nership between natural acid oxidizing microscopic organisms and
rials and several biochar investigations to understand biogas clean-up
methanogen-reducing carbon dioxide, which may be supported by the
(> 90% methane, < 5% H2S). Corn stover biochar was added at
existence of DIET in biochar adherence. However, the degree of response
55 ± 1 ◦ C in cluster AD of ooze, defined as thermophilic temperature
cannot depend exclusively on biochar growth, as the formation and
[87]. Biochar changes support average methane percentiles in contrast
resource of bacterial networks in the inoculum are equally significant.
to up to 42.5% made without biochar modifications. The effectiveness of
Network layout and microbial components in their digestion have been
white oak biochar and pinewood biochar was explored on upgrading
shown to individually invade Methanothermobacter and Clostridia
CH4 generation [88]. Cluster AD trial of wastewater treatment plants
separately and overwhelm microbial networks [85]. With the expansion
leads to loss of mesophilic and thermophilic temperatures. The pine­
of biochar, the resources of Clostridia and the specific colonies of
wood biochar dose at 2.499 g/g (dry ankle, comparatively starting now)
Methanosarcina improved. The findings mentioned above suggest the
and white oak biochar at 2.20 g/g requested a 7.6–10.3% expansion of
significance of Methanosarcina and Clostridia in the in-situ biogas pu­
the overall CH4 generation at mesophilic temperatures.
rification and the in-situ biogas-induced redesign method.
The thermophilic temperatures, such as it contained 2.99 g/g as

Fig. 5. Key terms occurrences network visualization map in biochar effect on a different stage of AD. (For interpretation of the references to colour in this figure
legend, the reader is referred to the web version of this article.)

9
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

4. Possible improvement practices by biochar for anaerobic material. The various associations between germs can be efficiently
digestion suppressed by advancing DIET with biochar, resulting in a short pile
stage in AD. The low-level phase can collect ammonium nitrogen and
As seen in Fig. 5, the colour of the node represents a different cluster, natural acids because of good use and change through methanogenic
while the size of the circle illustrates the frequency. The terminology can practice. According to Table 4, impact-resistant biochars in AD are
be separated and grouped by software into four clusters. In certain cases, inevitable. The most important influencing factor is the dose of biochar.
to prevent overlapping in a circle, objects are not seen with the mark. Biochar is derived from the same raw material. The prerequisite of py­
Cluster colours are seen in red, green, blue, and yellow. The Red Cluster rolysis can have a social effect on measuring different applications,
terms usually apply primarily to studies of anaerobic digestion and which is not difficult to encourage adverse effects at advanced levels
enhancement strategies for biogas processing. The key concept is (20% dependent on weight for the most part). Adverse effects were
anaerobic digestion in the red cluster. The green terms in the second occasionally recognized in biochar absorption and decreased interaction
cluster are more closely linked to biochar impact process studies. The between layers and microorganisms [45]. The uncompetitive explana­
blue cluster constituted the AD process is an important thing for an tion is rapid hydrolysis and acidogenesis-acetogenesis through inade­
efficient process. For example, some items from this group included quate biochar, the mediation of which accumulates to inhibit
"hydrolysis", "methanogenesis", "solvent", "catalyst" and "oxidation". methanogenesis.
Lastly, the yellow cluster focuses more on the production performance of As shown in Fig. 6, the AD process is a step-by-step process consisting
methane, where the terms such as "emission", "carbon dioxide", of various thermochemical courses for gasification, pyrolysis, and HTC
"methane", and "greenhouse gas", as well as "carbon source" were used. [21]. In particular, the performance of HTC biochars and pyrolytic
Overall, these four clusters’ existence indicates the primary use of bio­ biochars in digestive operations is now being studied by various scien­
char for the continuing facets of study is currently being undertaken tists for their mild effects on ammonia resistance, with apparent support
globally. The level of occurrence of keywords has been comparatively for bacterial growth and acid infection declining [56]. Several known
decreased from 2010 to 2021 and indicates clear significance. In this problems with substrate barriers can be partially solved and augmented
time, research also involves novel biochar applications for improved using biochar [22], but biochar in AD is not yet clearly understood.
anaerobic digestion. Over these days, the research focus has increasingly Thus, the modelling of operational methods requires advanced tech­
changed to biochar use, and the research site has also extended to in­ niques with specific references. A wide range of features needs to be
crease bioenergy production from the process of anaerobic digestion. completed to evaluate biochars’ process stimuli at an early stage. Pre­
The beneficial effects of biochar on AD execution include vious research has been necessary to assess the impact of biochar on AD
acidogenesis-acetogenesis, hydrolysis, and methanogenesis to improve processes and provide essential and significant statistics for future
acidic stress, inhibiting odour salts such as increasing acid pressure. The convenient and technological applications. The characteristic stimulus
first reason to learn about biochar in the system was to supply micro­ can usually be searched for significant consequences of AD processes. To
scopic organisms and assist the archaea biofilm [53]. The reactive power introduce operational augmentation skills, the biochar can be appro­
of biochar has been identified as AD, which aids in the mechanization of priately replaced with the traditional theological approach. Growth is
the labelled carbon as well as the production of significance emitted by possible by obtaining biochar from the central manufacturing unit, thus
biochar. Biochar is thought to be a conductive ingredient capable of implementing smart grids’ possible integration by opening up the bio­
improving synthetic digestion to increase propagation probability char market.
[118]. Biochar capabilities are protected from higher stacked substrates
to create specific colonies of utility organisms independently. To 5. Recent advancement and emerging challenges
improve methanogenesis through biochar, it was recommended to
weaken the Methanosaeta from the higher VFA level on the right, at 5.1. Development of biochar usage
which point the metabolically flexible Methanosarcina should be
improved [55]. Shen et al. [85] additionally observed Methanosarcina’s Most recent studies emphasize biochar behaviour in the AD process.
specific colonization activated by biochar. DIET is observed as an Biochar has the potential to increase biogas yield and biomethane per­
alternative part of the exchange of syntrophic electrons between species, centage. The growth rate of biogas production and the percentage of
explaining the reason behind the more obvious specific progression of biomethane with AD process stability and quality are significant aspects
beneficial microbes. Using DIET, the electrons will travel to the of AD efficiency. Also, some inhibitors formed by AD function, such as
co-dependent substrate via conductive cell-identification (nano viruses) nitrogen and sulfide, VFA, and limonene, have serious adverse conse­
[101], then methanogenic electron movement due to acetic acid can be quences for the AD system’s efficiency and stability. At mesophilic
improved. Conductive layers have been shown to provide cytochromes (35 ◦ C) temperatures for cattle manure, biogas production increased by
to two pili plus C-type workers for successful electron movement be­ 17.4% and 28.9% with biochar at 900–1000 ◦ C [31]. Glucose was then
tween methanogen and acetogen. Both Methanosaeta and Meth­ applied at a temperature of 35 ◦ C with the fruitwood’s biochemical
anosarcina are shown to have the option of legally electronic recognition obtained at a pyrolysis temperature of 33 ◦ C. The biochar decreases the
from different species. Thus, they were selected as conventional methanogenic delay stage, and the optimal biomethane content in­
methanogens by biochar. Notable from Methanosaeta, it can be used creases by 86.6% [58]. In another experiment, the mesophilic temper­
with caution using various substrates such as acetotrophic, Meth­ ature of the organic part of MSW, biogas, and biomethane together
anosarcina additives, such as acetic acid derivatives, methylamine, increased solid-state AD by 5% where biochar was found from the rest of
methanol, and H2/CO2. These may favour improved free alkali levels (up a new plant wood known as white oak pyrosis at a temperature of 650 ◦ C
to 916 mg/L) of acetolactic methanogenesis [26]. Advanced Meth­ [62].
anosarcina with more ground elasticity consumes faster mediation and Biochar is expected to absorb CO2, NH3, and H2S. Also, the biochar
side effects, thus further improving hydrolysis, driving acts as a buffer potential to reduce the acid and ammonia barrier at once.
acidogenesis-acetogenesis. Excess Methanosaeta will be promoted to be Also, the accessible biochar structure creates a habitat for germs. It
dynamic again using acetic acid diversion with minimal restriction ensures a suitable environment for the germs to thrive, resulting in
reduction corrosive synthesis [55]. biogas production quality [87]. Several studies have shown that the
The ability of biochar to activate DIET seems to encourage abnormal application of biochar can help convert carbon-based dissolved sub­
colonization of methanogenesis for improved output. The timeline stances into biomethane. For anaerobic fermentation of chicken dung,
required by the new syntrophic associates to meet the corresponding biochar’s application increases total biomethane yield [76]. In the AD
substratum cost ratio usually extends across the absence of conductive cycle, biochar yields from white oak and pine wood were applied at

10
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

Table 4
Biochar application and its inhibitory impact in the previous works.
Feed Substrate Formation Dosing Wastewater AD operating Inhibitory effects of biochar References
states condition

Rice Straw Pyrolysis at 4% (w/w) Cattle manure Batch at 38 ◦ C The cumulative methane generation was reduced, and [84]
600 ◦ C the fermentation cycle was delayed
Rice Straw Pyrolysis at 0.5% (w/ The organic component of Batch AD at Reducing total production of methane and a target (Qin et al.,
500 ◦ C w) municipal solid waste 35 ◦ C output rate of methane 2017)
Hardwood Pyrolysis at 5 mg (w/ Sulfate-laden CSTR at 35 ◦ C Volatile fatty acid accumulation reduced the [70]
550 ◦ C w) cumulative methane production and ultimately caused
reactor failure
Dried brewer’s Pyrolysis at 20–50% Brewer’s spent grain Batch AD at The decrease in the constant reaction rate and the [19]
spent grain 300 ◦ C (w/w) 37 ◦ C production of biogas
Wood Pyrolysis at 10 gm/L Methanogenic sludge CSTR at 35 ◦ C The supportive effect of biochar dosing on micro- (Shao et al.,
800 ◦ C organisms became restricted to the stressed conditions 2019)

THERMAL PROCESS PRODUCTS

Digestate
Intermediate Liquids
Pyrolysis Anaerobic Digestion
Bio-crude
Biogas
Gasification Biochar

Syngas
HTC Biochars R&D
Hydrochar

Fig. 6. Thermochemical processes and anaerobic digestion: potential contact pathways.

pyrolysis temperatures of 500–700 ◦ C. The methanogenic activity in­ stability, and the removal of the biogas clean-up process.
creases after biochar and decreases the percentage of carbon dioxide in
biogas composition. All biochar addicts have been instructed to increase 5.2. Difficulties and confinements
the biomethane percentage (75.3–96.7%) with no biochar (65%) at
35 ◦ C and 55 ◦ C. Even both pinewood biochar and white oak biochar Although various investigations into the addition of biochars to the
have uneven structural elements such as irregular outer surfaces, as­ AD system have been made in science, there are still many research gaps.
sembly of biochemical properties like honeycombs. Biochar was also Biochar is a complex component with flexible properties depending on
used in the AD process to remove CO2from biogas from the reactor [86]. the limitations of different generations. Recent investigations for the
The reactors with added biochar kept pH in a somewhat high pH array connection of biosynthetic properties and the effect of its progression on
(7.24–7.43 for 35 ◦ C and 7.43–7.61 for 55 ◦ C, correspondingly). The germs, and the measurement of the relationship are difficult to explain.
results show the addition of biochar in the AD process to significantly Confirmation of unchanged DNA in biochar is challenging to perceive
increase the biomethane percentage of mesophilic reactors more than the direct DIET-based electron movement driven by solid biochar
thermophilic reactors. This is due to the low flexibility of the primary detected by individual DNA sequence synthesis from biochar spandrel or
microorganisms to temperature changes [7]. by particular DNA hybridization, further hinders testing of the internal
The dominant microbes at mesophilic temperature are the Meth­ process. To seriously illuminate the update program by interacting with
anosarcina spp. and Methanosaeta spp.; Methanomicrobials and Meth­ the Biochar application, accurate Redox feedback by Biochar is required.
anobacterials are the main microbes at thermophilic temperatures [34]. Moreover, it is challenging to evaluate pyrolysis biomass’s financial
The significant pathogens at standard temperatures are comparatively viability, and it is also a complex and versatile thermochemical synthesis
more similar to the mesophilic conditions in AD. Musk leaves and strategy.
chicken dung are studied under different operational temperatures [76]. The DIET process is a suitable electron allocation pathway related to
The impact of 5% biochar yield from fruitwood was studied, and the hydrogen interface transfer but is rarely used in the AD process for the
outcomes presented 35 ◦ C and 45 ◦ C process temperature happening treatment of complex biological substances. Its effects on the AD process
quicker reaction with inoculum, concerning a process temperature of are not so individual and require more effective research. Simulta­
55 ◦ C. Thus, biochar’s application applies a decreasing process stabili­ neously, the biochar component has high functional quality because it
zation of mesophilic digestion with a dose of 2.20–2.49 g/g of dry has a wide range of sources, and it can be found like the rest of the biogas
sludge, whereas a dry mud dose of 4.40–4.97 g/g inhibits bacterial ac­ without any other investment. Efficient biochar groups can be used as
tivity [88]. Biochar application using microbial electrolysis cells electrical transport and as crucial as conductivity, requiring further
increased biomethane output by 27%, although it increased VS removal investigation. The application of biochar in the AD process of organic
by 179% [104]. The biochar application has the alluring power of good matter is still rare. In the near future, the application of biochar in the
CO2. It can increase biomethane percentage up to 85.7% and eliminate AD process, including disabling organic matter and VFA supply, should
CO2 up to 61% at once [51]. Biochar addition technology provides an be considered separately. Many researchers use different methods to
innovative process of effective biomethane yield from various organic produce biochar for various applications, such as carbonization pro­
wastes of AD with an improved removal efficiency of CO2, system cesses, pyrolysis, gasification, hydrothermal carbonization, flash

11
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

carbonation, and mechanochemical technology. However, BC’s perfor­ example, in a membrane bioreactor and synthetic membrane process.
mance is affected by speed, time, substrate filling, geometric parame­ Future work may require practical approaches to determine the
ters, and so on, and eventually produces BC with carbon contents of characteristics of active biochar. To clarify the depth of active biochar
20–30 m and some porosity [33]. It is also possible to obtain BC in functionality more precisely in different applications, it will help
nanoscale by increasing the milling time. However, the procedure is develop more reliable methods for dynamic biochar processing and, in
complicated by several considerations, including the quality of the particular, to enhance their efficiency. We will gain insights into the
feedstock, purity, biochar homogeneity, and recovery. large-scale growth, increased use, storage, reuse, and maintenance
Biochar-microbial polymers can interact with microorganisms in the problems of biochar used in infrastructure for the potential practical use
AD method. The process of biochar-microbial polymer inhibition and of active biochar. There is very little information on these topics that
efficiency improvement needs to be investigated. Research on the slow need further research. During the activation and installation process,
local release of microorganisms and the tolerance of microorganisms is harmful pollutants, such as acids/alkalis (H2SO4, HNO3, KOH, etc.) and
therefore necessary. Applying this method will have a significant prac­ toxic gases (SO2, NO2, etc.), can be released into the environment.
tical impact on the production of safe processing of agricultural waste. Precise requirements for protecting active biochar and identifying and
The relationship between biochar production costs and energy efficiency mitigating future ecosystem degradation should also be discussed.
gains is still uncertain [103]. Life cycle analysis (LCA) can be used to Owing to the growth of population and industry, urban wastewater
determine the potential economic and environmental impacts of AD treatment plants contain a significant amount of sewage sludge per year.
systems. The primary component of AD is biogas, which is beneficial As a result, sludge management and drainage issues must be addressed
because the energy offset is usually strengthened by bio-carbon to preserve the ecosystem. Sewage sludge is high in organic matter and
sequestration by displacing conventional fossil fuels in the device’s other readily accessible nutrients for plant tissues. It has a lot of promise
total carbon reduction efficiency. The LCA energy input-output method as a fertilizer for agriculture because of the many advantages, such as
can measure energy associated with expenditures during AD cycles and improved soil quality and nutrient status. Meanwhile, waste sludge in­
estimate the overall energy input of biogas production and return the cludes heavy metals and other toxins, including bacteria, persistent
actual energy invested. More efficient methane processing devices could organic compounds, among other contaminants. Due to their chal­
be installed in future industrial applications. A network needs to invest lenging biodegradability and precarious existence, high concentrations
in conventional and emerging biofuels feedstocks, review energy inputs, of toxic heavy metals in sewage sludge can pose a danger to public
and predict production returns. health once they join the ecological cycle. Consequently, before dis­
charging sludge to the ground, WWTPs must also utilize sufficient
6. Future perspectives and recommendations treatment equipment to conform to environmental legislation. Biochar
as an additive in AD systems could enhance this treatment scheme by
Activated biochar can be used as a conventional carbon resource that optimizing microbial species’ composition, alleviating inhibitor tension,
is fairly expensive and environmentally friendly, with considerable po­ and maintaining AD process integrity through its action in microor­
tential for use in most cases. Although recent work on the production ganism metabolism.
and implementation of active biochars in multiple cases has continued A life cycle analysis of all biochar applications is required to identify
to grow, there are many research gaps. Some attention has been paid to the potential advantages and disadvantages of specific applications.
the use of activated biochar to combat certain contaminants. Recently However, the optimal response conditions for biochar and biofuel pro­
there has been growing concern about toxins emerging in the atmo­ duction are not necessarily the same; the requirements, therefore, have
sphere, and more research is needed on reducing pollution through to be adapted to specific applications based on the target products. For
activated biochar. The following recommendations tackle those microbial fuel cell operation, high carbonization temperatures are
knowledge discrepancies: desirable for biochar growth. In comparison, the carbonization tem­
Feedstock with different biochar compositions, production condi­ perature of 400–600 ◦ C is favourable for bio-oil processing. Thus, the
tions, and activation parameters can significantly impact produced life cycle analysis of bio-based products (bio-oil and syngas) and by-
biochar’s subsequent characteristics. Future studies need to select products (biochar) will lead to the collection of biomasses to reduce
feedstocks with the proper compositions and optimize processing con­ environmental impact and cost.
ditions and activation parameters to generate biochars for different Biochar is a reliable resource of high quality, as it has abundant
applications properly. In addition, there are some suitable alternative sources and can be extracted from biogas residues at no extra cost. It can
methods for producing biochar. Studies are needed to make more be used as an electric shuttle for biochar alternatives that are just as
effective and new activation therapies and improvements to existing important as conductivity and require further analysis. The use of bio­
methods. The inclusion of several primary biochar activation methods char for AD in carbon-rich substances is small, much less than in
will also present a definite possibility for improving activation output by nitrogen-rich materials. In the future, special consideration should be
integrating the advantages of similar techniques. given to the use of biochar with carbon-rich substances and related
Active biochar can be created and processed with features that will methods for resolving VFA resistance. The biochar-microbial polymer
make it suitable for target applications. From a particular set of design may be mixed with microorganisms for potential work in the AD phase.
parameters, biochars can create “designer biochars” to fit various More work needs to be done on the biochar-microbial polymer cycle to
implementations. Through screening feedstocks, optimization of pyrol­ prevent and improve performance. Thus, studies are required to un­
ysis operating conditions, adaptation of different activation methods, derstand the slow local release of inhibitors and increase microbes’
and activation parameters, the required characteristics of "designer ability to resist AD reactors’ environmental changes. Applying this
biochars," including the combination of physical conductivity and sur­ method has a functional effect on organic waste disposal.
face, can be defined to achieve this.
In contrast to this fact, most of the use of active biochar focuses on 7. Conclusion
controlling polluted water. There is a comparative lack of help for CO2
recovery and energy-saving, which needs improvement. Also, there are Biochar is considered a promising alternative in recent times to
other potential benefits of activated biochar required to be explored in stimulate AD process performance. Benefits of biochar include
the future. For beginners, this can be seen as a possible modern change increasing hydrolysis action, balancing acidogenesis-acetogenesis, and
for contaminated soil and sediment management. Appropriate physical reducing VFA accumulation and biogas purification, including appro­
or chemical properties enable the use of active biochar as support for the priate methanogenesis actions for increased biogas production. Bio­
catalyst. It can also be found in other wastewater treatment schemes, for methane yields can be promoted at once by initiating a rigid electron

12
Z.B. Khalid et al. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering 9 (2021) 105489

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