PRODUCTION OF HYDROCHAR BY HYDROTHERMAL CARBONIZATION OF RICE HUSK

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study on the production of hydrochar through
hydrothermal carbonization of rice husk. Hydrothermal carbonization is an innovative and promising
biomass processing method that yields a carbon-rich product with high calorific value and a wide range of
applications. Rice husk, a byproduct of the rice industry, is often considered waste but holds significant
potential as a feedstock for bioenergy materials. Experiments on hydrothermal carbonization of rice husk
were conducted under various temperature conditions. The optimal process parameters were determined
based on the yield and physicochemical properties of the final product. The formation of pores on the
hydrochar surface depends on the duration and temperature of the process. Biomass undergoes significant
decomposition at high temperatures, exposing its underlying layers and enhancing hydrochar porosity.
The optimal hydrothermal carbonization temperature for rice husk was found to be 800°C with a duration
of 60 minutes. The iodine adsorption capacity at 800°C reached 63.37%. Scanning electron microscopy
revealed that the obtained hydrochar possesses a well-developed porous structure.