Management of the soil environment using biochar and zeolite in various combinations: impact on soil condition and economical aspects
Abstract
Purpose Both biochar (BC) and zeolite (Z) are defined as soil conditioners affecting various parameters of soil environment significantly. In most cases, BCs and Zs are characterized by well-developed specific surface area, high porosity, and excellent sorption properties, which is highly helpful in soil reclamation or conditioning. This literature review compares impact of BCs and Zs on the physicochemical properties of various soils as well as economic aspects of their synthesis. Materials and methods The review was prepared based on the articles published in the last 5 years (2018-2023). The articles were selected from the ScienceDirect® database using the keywords: ‘biochar/zeolite impact on soil physicochemical properties’, ‘biochar/zeolite impact on water retention of soil’ and ‘biochar/zeolite economic aspects’. Results and discussion Based on the available data, it can be stated that both biochars and zeolites have good sorptive properties, which usually contributes to better growth of crops. Comparing biochar and zeolites and choosing which one is more promising depends on the specific purpose and type of soil to which they are to be applied. Biochar usage contributes mainly to providing organic matter and improving soil structure, while zeolites are applied for enhancing water retention. The profitability of zeolite and biochar production depends largely on the precursor as well as the synthesis method. Conclusions Due to the fact that impact of synthetic zeolites on the soil environment is much less frequently investigated than that of biochars, the research using Zs and various types of soil is especially needed. During soil reclamation, in some cases, it is advisable to apply biochar and zeolite simultaneously. Combinations of these materials may provide benefits in soil structure and water retention. Such mixed techniques should be investigated in the near future.
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Uploaded file is the preprint of publication: Kukowska Sylwia, Szewczuk-Karpisz Katarzyna, Management of the soil environment using biochar and zeolite in various combinations: impact on soil condition and economical aspects, Volume 25, Pages 77-102, (2025), https://doi.org/10.1007/s11368-024-03927-2
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Citation
Kukowska Sylwia, Szewczuk-Karpisz Katarzyna, Management of the soil environment using biochar and zeolite in various combinations: impact on soil condition and economical aspects, Volume 25, Pages 77-102, (2025), https://doi.org/10.1007/s11368-024-03927-2