Effects of Pyrolytic Char as A Soil Amendment on Soil Properties and Plant Growth

Authors

Keywords:

Biochar, Pyrolysis, Agricultural residue, Soil amendment, Crop yield, Soil properties

Abstract

 

The increasing rate of soil degradation has been a global menace in recent years, predominantly due to human activities. The immediate effects of this challenge are the decline in food production and crop yield in many countries due to poor soil quality. This study, therefore, seeks to determine the effects of different biochar compositions as a soil amendment and to study their effects on soil properties and plant growth. Using a randomised complete block design method, Lettuce seedlings were planted in soil treated with biochar produced from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and the catalytic pyrolysis of refuse-derived fuels (RDF) and four (4) different agricultural residues, namely cocopeat, cassava peels, rice husk and bamboo leaves to determine their effects on soil properties and plant growth. Each biochar treatment had a 50:50 and a 75:25 sand-to-biochar ratio, respectively, where growth was monitored weekly for eight (8) weeks. While a 50:50 biochar to soil ratio increased soil ph and electrical conductivity, exponentially affecting plant growth, a 25:75 application rate of cassava peel and rice husk biochar to soil ratios optimally balances soil enhancement and crop yield. The study demonstrated the potential of biochar to enhance soil nutrient content, particularly for Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium. While the study confirmed notable improvements in soil properties, the varying effects of different biochar compositions on plant growth demonstrate the importance of selecting appropriate biochar types and application rates to optimise both soil enhancement and crop yield.

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Author Biographies

  • Jerome Dela Lavie, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Dr. Jerome Dela Lavie is an Assistant Lecturer at KNUST and a researcher in sustainable energy. His expertise spans biomass valorisation, bioenergy, postharvest engineering, and Intellectual Property. He promotes climate resilience and sustainable development through research in waste-to-energy systems, circular economy, and sustainable renewable management in West Africa.

  • Francis Kemausuor, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Prof. Francis Kemausuor is a full professor of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana, and the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering. His research spans bioenergy technologies, rural electrification, and energy policy, with a focus on sustainable energy access and climate resilience in sub-Saharan Africa. He has contributed extensively to the development of energy models, GIS-based electrification planning, and feasibility studies for biomass valorization.

  • Philip Yaro Laari, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Philip Yaro Laari is a data science enthusiast with an academic background in Agricultural Engineering and Bioengineering. His research interests include renewable energy, biofuels, process optimisation, and climate change. He is currently a WASCAL PhD scholar in the Climate Change and Energy program, focusing on integrating data science, energy systems modelling, and GIS to develop sustainable solutions for energy access and climate resilience in West Africa

  • Janet Akohene, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Miss Janet Akohene is a dedicated researcher specializing in sustainable agriculture, agricultural mechanization, and environmental science. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Science, with a focus on Agricultural Mechanization. Janet is committed to advancing practices that enhance agricultural productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability.

  • Lydia Asante-Mensah , Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Miss Lydia Asante-Mensah holds a BSc in Agricultural Engineering and specializes in sustainable agriculture, bioenergy, and climate change. With a passion for innovative solutions, she aims to enhance agricultural practices and promote renewable energy. Her research focuses on developing strategies that address environmental challenges while supporting food security and resilience.

  • Randy Joshua Sefa, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Mr. Randy Joshua Sefa is a BSc Agricultural Engineering graduate specializing in Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change, and Renewable Energy. He focuses on integrating renewable energy solutions in agriculture, promoting innovative practices that enhance productivity and resilience while addressing environmental challenges.

  • Williams Mbaa, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Mr. Williams Mbaa holds a BSc in Agriculture with specialisation in mechanisation from the Department of Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. His research focuses on sustainable agricultural practices and technological innovation to enhance productivity while minimising environmental impact.

  • Michael Kweku Commeh, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Mr. Michael Kweku Commeh is a Senior Research Fellow at the Technology Consultancy Centre (TCC), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He holds advanced degrees in Renewable Energy and Environmental Resource Management, and Technology Management. His research focuses on biomass conversion technologies, ceramic water filtration, and sustainable energy systems with an emphasis on waste valorization and environmental sanitation.  His work supports circular economy practices and innovations for clean energy in sub-Saharan Africa.

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Published

2025-08-29

Issue

Vol. 43 No. 3 (2025)

Section

Engineering & Physical Sciences

License

JUST Vol. 43 Number 1 (2025) Copyright and Licensing statement

How to Cite

Effects of Pyrolytic Char as A Soil Amendment on Soil Properties and Plant Growth. (2025). Journal of Science and Technology, 43(3), 23-41. https://journal.knust.edu.gh/index.php/just/article/view/1887