NMR Techniques for the Evaluation of Biochar Characteristics

Biochar, a carbonaceous material, has emerged as a valuable tool for environmental remediation and soil fertility enhancement. Its activity - i.e., its ability to either change soil properties or affect the fate of organic and inorganic pollutants - depends on both biochar's physical and chemical characteristics. The most recent literature evidenced that conventional chemical analyses are insufficient to fully understand biochar’s functionality in environmental compartments. Therefore, new, and more sophisticated technologies are needed to unveil the mechanisms underlying biochar’s actions. In this chapter, the different NMR techniques for biochar evaluation are presented, and limits and advantages for each technique are acknowledged.