[Terrapreta] Char enhancements and testing

[Sean K. Barry]

Hi Rex,

ASTM 1762 is the "Proximate Analysis" test for charcoal.  It gives the %moisture, %volatile matter, %Carbon, and %ash content in a charcoal sample, all on a weight/weight basis.  I have sourced 2 places in Minnesota where it would cost $150-$200/sample to perform.  I expect to build/get my own lab facilities to do this kind of testing (starting specifically with ASTM 1762) myself.

Regards,

SKB
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Rex Manderson<mailto:Rexm at chaotech.com.au> 
  To: terrapreta at bioenergylists.org<mailto:terrapreta at bioenergylists.org> 
  Sent: Saturday, April 05, 2008 11:13 PM
  Subject: [Terrapreta] Char enhancements and testing


  Some comments following our limited work with a few pots.  Following the line of David Yarrow on microbial activity we found no need to provide encouragement, the positive impact of char addition was visible within a few days of germination.  We suspect that the key issue for speed of positive impact is "good " char.  Our test material was 80% carbon so not too much unconverted content, and it was finely divided.  Further if there is a lack of nutrients in the target soil then the microbes appear to win the race for what is available and the crop showed nutrient deficiency symptoms. I would support the caution of Sean ( SKB ) and avoid sea water.

   

  The level of activation is the second parameter behind the straight %C purity that we think should be at least characterised for a char process.  I have only spent a few hours on the topic, without finding anyone in Australia who could give me an ASTM test and Iodine number result for my samples.  Is anyone on the list equipped for the test or know where it can be sourced at a reasonable price?  

   

  I have found the various discussions on the source of terra preta quite entertaining, but I would offer the view that it could easily become a distraction only.  If we can repeat a consistent 40% agricultural productivity gain ( + reduced nutrient run off, + less Nitrous Oxide, ++ ) with just plain char done properly then that is enough to drive us forward.  I have seen no views diverging from the belief that the char must be used in conjunction with adequate nutrients, and the use of excrement as a source is unlikely to impacted by confirmation that it was part of the Amazonian cycle. 

   

  Out of all the discussion I think that once we can get some bulk production of char from low grade biomass happening efficiently the answers will come rapidly.  That is our focus at present.

   

  Regards to all.

  Rex Manderson

  Chaotech Pty Ltd

   

   

   

   

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