Biochar is the solid product of thermochemical conversion of biomass in oxygen-limited conditions. Its chemical structure is characterised by a high level of carbon condensation granting stability and recalcitrance other than making it a viable mean of carbon storage. In fact, biochar can be regarded as an artificial analogue to geological materials such as inertinite macerals, preserved in the sedimentary rocks through geological time. On this account it can be efficiently characterized by organic petrography methods including, but not limited to, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Use of such methods can generate unprecedented insight into biochar’s physical-chemical properties and the effects of its production process, enhancing viability for end users.

This session welcomes contributions leveraging cutting-edge approaches making use of expertise in organic petrography techniques to elucidate biochar’s role as a mean of carbon storage and a tool for sustainable development. The objective is to draw from the legacy of organic carbon characterization to create a robust backbone for the understanding of biochar’s formation mechanisms, properties and implications for innovative applications. By integrating different analytical methods through the lenses of organic petrography, we aim to foster deeper insight into biochar dynamics advancing its use according to a scientific approach.

Therefore, our goal is to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date toolbox for biochar characterization in geosciences through contributions concerning:

Innovative multi-proxy biochar characterization

Effects and optimization of biochar properties

Novel, data driven, insights on biochar’s stability and permanence for carbon storage