Converting sawdust to biochar and its mineral content: A preliminary analysis

Abstract In Indonesia, soil degradation is occurring. A strategy to improve conditions by applying biochar as a amendment. On the other hand, Indonesia an agricultural country with many types of biomass that can be converted into biochar. Sawdust mahogany, teak, and sappan wood from furniture industry easy find has great potential raw materials for This study used X-ray fluorescence spectrometry determine mineral content sawdust sawdust, especially ash fraction. Biochar was created burning woods in furnace at temperatures ranging 250°C 350°C. general, main (ash fraction) calcium (CaO) concentrations 51 72%, having highest concentration 70–72%. The potassium (K 2 O) ranged 9–23%, mahogany (23%). phosphorus (P O 5 ) 10%, teak 7–10%. Moreover, contained 15-20% silica, 6-8% Fe. included alkaline cations; if applied soil, then mineralization process may occur cations could pH through liming mechanism. result only general information; further research required produce more comprehensive data.