Researchers at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) have developed a flame plasma pyrolysis system that turns wet coffee waste into biochar with a heating value of 29 MJ per kilogram in under two minutes. The process uses temperatures of 800-900 degrees Celsius and leverages the moisture in the coffee to create a popcorn effect that breaks down the material structure. The resulting biochar has a carbon content that jumps from 15.6 percent to 46.2 percent and contains no sulfur compounds, which means it burns without emitting harmful sulfur dioxide. The technology bypasses the expensive pre-drying step that typically slows down biomass processing. While conventional methods take 30 minutes to 6 hours, this system finishes in 90 seconds. The porous biochar can also be used for activated carbon, industrial sorbents, and water or air filtration. The researchers say the method could be applied to other food waste, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge, potentially turning landfill material into useful energy sources.
