Synergies in Sequential Uses of Biochar

Background:

Based on expertise from across the GreenCarbon consortium, this PhD project will focus on identification of opportunities for sequential uses of biochar-derived materials. Sequential uses can be divided into two categories. The first category includes sequences, where biochar produced with the primary aim to sequester carbon and to provide soil benefits is initially used in applications that improve its properties, while delivering environmental or other services (e.g., nutrient recovery and recycling) or emissions reduction. This biochar can then be used in agriculture and horticulture. The second category includes sequences where refined biochars were produced for primary use in energy and environmental applications. At the end of their lifetime in the primary application, the materials can successful be used in one or more other applications, the last final use being in agriculture or horticulture.

Specific examples of sequences in the first category that will be investigated at UEdin and Freeland Horticulture Ltd. include: removal of odour from agricultural and industrial processes (in-vessel composting, anaerobic digestion, poultry production, etc.), removal of contaminants (hard COD), and recovery and recycling of nutrients (N, P) in effluents from composting, anaerobic digestion, water treatment processes, animal production, etc. The aim will be to replace activated carbon filters and other systems currently in use, with the aim to reduce running costs and recycle nutrients.

In the second category, spent refined BCs (e.g., CO2 capture sorbents, catalyst supports, etc.) will be assessed as potential replacements for activated carbons, additives and fillers, and ultimately as sole components or ingredients in biochar products for agriculture and horticulture.

Objectives:

to provide a scientific basis for use of biomass-derived carbons (BCs) in filters for odour removal, contaminant removal, and nutrient capture and recycling; to develop effective and economically attractive effluent management solutions replacing currently used systems based on activated carbon etc. It is expected that the project will yield fundamental understanding of potential synergies, and identify a number of opportunities for sequential uses of BCs and BC-derived materials with high synergies. The most promising options will be further developed, tested and assessed in terms of technical, environmental and economic performance. Focus will be on filtration of liquid and gaseous effluents, and integration with processes in management of organic residues, such as composting, anaerobic digestion etc. Performance indicators of BC-based solutions will be benchmarked against current industry standards (mainly based on activated carbon).

Knowledge, skills and experience

The essential knowledge is the equivalent of a good first degree in either Engineering, or Science with good knowledge of heat and mass transfer processes and chemistry. Further, experience in experimental design, laboratory work, modelling and quantitative analysis of data is highly beneficial. Critically, the candidate should be enthusiastic and willing to learn as part of a research team in Edinburgh and the wider GreenCarbon network.

Essential criteria:

- A first degree or Masters in Engineering, Science or related disciplines
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Must not have resided or worked/studied in the UK for more than 12 months over the past 3 years; must have less than four years of research experience

Desirable criteria:

- Publications in areas relevant to the research project
- Experience in relevant techniques
- Experience of working in larger teams, ideally with some responsibility for tasks or individuals