PRODUCTION OF BIOCHAR FROM COCOA POD HUSK: PRELIMINARY RESULT
Authors: Rozita, O., Saiful Mujahid, A.R. and Sharih, S.
Journal Issue: Malaysian Cocoa Journal, Volume 14/2022
Keywords: Biochar, cocoa pod husk, pyrolysis, nutrient recycling, waste management
Published On: 10/05/2022
Abstract
Biochar, a high carbon compound made from pyrolysis process of biomass has recently created an interest in many agriculturists. And therefore, currently, there are many studies that have been carried out on the importance of biochar to plant growth. Among the materials that can be used to make biochar is cocoa pod husk (CPH). Normally, CPH is only categorized as a waste from cocoa since it has been neglected in cocoa field by the farmers. A mound of CPH in field can be a good habitat for pests and diseases especially if the CPH is already infected with pest and disease such as cocoa pod borer and Phythopthora palmivora, respectively. However, CPH can be recycled to cocoa farm by changing it to more valuable products such as into compost and biochar. Therefore, this study was conducted to produce biochar from CPH and determine the value that can be contributed by the cocoa pod husk biochar. This biochar was prepared using a simple and affordable method, so that, it can be used by the cocoa farmers later on. The process of making biochar from CPH using simple technique was documented including its duration of burning process, quantity produced in each production etc. Nutrient content in CPH biochar was also analysed. Preliminary results of the analysis indicated that biochar from cocoa pod husk were rich in nitrogen and potassium.