Pyrolysis With Purpose: Surveying Relative Biochar-Tailings Compatibility Through Native Seed Germination Trials

The introduction of select low-cost biochars at active and legacy mine sites could alter
the reclamation scenario dramatically. Biochar is the term given to any pyrolyzed biomass
material that is classified for use as a soil additive (Beesley et al., 2011). Biochar has been
shown to sorb mine contaminants (heavy metals), encourage substrate water and nutrient
retention, and promote fertility; thus could ultimately render reclamation more efficient
(Hunt et al., 2010). Furthermore, development of a commercial biochar industry in mining
communities would introduce diversity within a volatile, resource-based economic setting.
The experimental addition of char onto soils has demonstrated increased crop yields and
plant biomass, as well as lasting stress adaptation potential (Keske and Lohman, 2011).
Recent findings suggest that the inputs to and conditions of pyrolysis influence a biochar’s
physical and chemical properties and its ultimate performance as an amendment (Hunt et
al., 2010). Less understood, however, is the extent to which biochar behavior varies in
different substrate environments, including diverse mining terrains.