Surface Properties
The surface properties of biochar influence how it holds nutrients, interacts with water, and supports microbial life in soil systems.
| Property | Why it plays a role |
|---|---|
| Porosity | Creates space for water storage, air exchange and microbial activity. |
| Surface Area | A larger surface area improves adsorption and nutrient retention. |
| Charge Capacity | Helps bind positively charged nutrients and reduce leaching losses. |
| Water Holding Capacity | Improves moisture availability for plants during dry periods. |
| pH Reactivity | Influences how biochar moderates acidity and interacts with soil chemistry. |
| Adsorption Behaviour | Affects how organic compounds and nutrients attach to the biochar surface. |
| Microbial Habitat | Provides protected niches for beneficial soil microorganisms. |