FINAL YEAR PROJECT REPORT

Extraction of Humic Acid from Biochar

Agricultural Benefits and Sustainable Approach

Submitted By:-
1. Vijendra Singh Nathawat
2. Arnav Sharma
3. Rishika Mehta
What is Biochar?
● Charcoal-like substance produced from pyrolysis of
plant material
● Used as soil amendment and carbon sequestration
technique
● Can decrease fertilizer requirements and increase
crop yield
● Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and aids in
climate change mitigation
What is Humic Acid?
● Complex mixture of organic acids and other
compounds
● Forms naturally in soil through microbial breakdown
of organic matter
● Promotes plant growth, root development, and
nutrient uptake
● Improves soil structure and water retention capacity

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Why Extract Humic Acid from
Biochar?
● Biochar contains high amounts of humic acid in
condensed form
● More efficient and cost-effective method of
obtaining humic acid
● Studies show increased nutrient availability and up
to 25% higher crop yields.
● Reduces waste and carbon emissions from existing
extraction methods
● Provides sustainable source of humic acid for
agriculture and industrial applications

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Extraction Process

STEP 1- BIOCHAR SELECTION

STEP 2 - ACID TREATMENT

STEP 3- FILTRATION AND SEPARATION

STEP 4- DRYING AND STORAGE

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Extraction Process - Step 1:
Biochar Selection
Select biochar with suitable properties:

● High carbon content

● Low ash content
● Minimal contamination

Proper biochar selection ensures better extraction

efficiency.
Extraction Process - Step 2:
Acid Treatment

● Immerse the selected biochar in a solution of Distil

Water and acid solution in the ratio of 1:10 (e.g.,
hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid).

We in our case used Sulfuric Acid.

● Adjust pH in range of 2-3 and temperature for

optimal extraction efficiency.
● Agitate or stir the mixture to enhance contact
between biochar and acid.
Extraction Process - Step 3:
Filtration and Separation
● Separate the humic acid solution from the solid
residue through filtration techniques.
● Efficient use of FIlter Paper can be Applied for the
Filtration.
● Methods such as centrifugation or vacuum filtration
can be used for efficient separation.
● Collect the humic acid-rich solution for further
purification.
Extraction Process - Step 4:
Drying and Storage
● Dry the purified humic acid to remove excess
moisture.
● Store the extracted humic acid in airtight containers
to maintain its quality and prevent degradation.
Applications of Humic Acid
● Soil conditioner: Improves soil fertility, structure,
and water retention.
● Plant growth promoter: Enhances nutrient uptake,
root development, and stress tolerance.
● Bio-stimulant: Stimulates microbial activity and
beneficial soil organisms.
● Remediation agent: Facilitates soil remediation and
reduces heavy metal toxicity.
● Organic fertilizer enhancer: Increases nutrient
availability and reduces nutrient leaching.

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 Challenges of Extraction from
BioChar:-
● Extraction Efficiency: Optimizing extraction methods for
higher yield and purity can be challenging.

● Cost: Scaling up production may involve costs associated

with equipment, chemicals, and purification processes.

● Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality of extracted

humic acid and adherence to industry standards requires
careful monitoring.

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 Benefits Of Extraction form
BioChar:-
● Sustainability: Reducing dependence on non-renewable
humic acid sources.

● Soil Health: Enhances fertility, structure, and water retention,

improving crop growth and productivity.

● Environmental Protection: Reduces agricultural waste and

pollution by utilizing organic waste materials.

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Future Outlook
● Growing interest in sustainable and natural
agricultural practices
● Increasing demand for organic and locally-grown
produce
● Advancements in extraction technology and research
on biochar and humic acid
● Potential to revolutionize agriculture and
environmental remediation industries

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Conclusion
● Extraction of humic acid from biochar has
promising potential for sustainable and efficient
source of valuable organic compound
● Further research and standardization of extraction
methods is needed
● Collaboration between agriculture engineers and
other fields can lead to innovative solutions for
environmental and societal challenges

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References
● Insert list of references here

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