Program Overview
Understanding the characteristics, production, and application of fit-for-purpose biocarbon products to develop sustainable solutions for environmental challenges and industrial needs.
Recent Research
- Biocarbon for roadside drainage systems research is funded by the Minnesota Dept. of Transportation to mitigate polluted stormwater runoff.
- Demonstration of biochar for carbon sequestration in the built environment, such as parks and other city infrastructure, was funded by the University of Minnesota and the City of Minneapolis.
- Stacking the environmental and economic benefits of engineered biocarbon to stabilize coal combustion sludge for safe, permanent storage is being investigated to help power companies comply with EPA mandates and offers a market opportunity for long-term biocarbon storage.
Related News
NRRI demonstration project transforms wildfire fuel into carbon-sequestering, soil-enhancing biocarbon material
It's not easy to give up on a project. But NRRI and project partners knew when it was time to take research on solid biofuels in a new direction.
Industry partner gets NRRI assistance to add value and improve byproduct for more efficient use.
Eighteen months ago, Jeff Kinkel took on a challenging role at NRRI that makes him grateful for the team approach.
Biochar is gaining interest around the globe. NRRI is working to understand its potential for environmental remediation and as a new market for forest resources.
Meet the Researcher: Brian Barry enjoys transforming biomass into high value products.
You know charcoal. (Summer picnic, anyone?) But do you know about the economic and environmental benefits of its close cousin, biochar?
Media Coverage
- – How biochar — the ‘Swiss Army knife of climate tools’ — is growing in Minnesota – MPR
- – Minneapolis is on the leading edge of biochar, a carbon sequestering material full of promise and still under research – Star Tribune
- – NRRI Works To Develop “Green Steel” Making Process – KDAL
- – NRRI receives grant to replace fossil fuel in some steelmaking – Business North
- – Whatever happened to … birch bark extracts? – Hometown Focus
- – Northland researchers look to biochar as possible climate solution – Duluth News Tribune
- – Study looks into biochar for battery recycling – Waste & Recycling Magazine
- – Multi-Year Initiative Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Aims to Support a More Resilient and Sustainable Domestic Supply Chain by Investing in Next Generation Metal Recycling Technologies – Waste Advantage Magazine
- – Earth Month: NRRI’s Biochar research – WDIO
- – Biochar forestry could reduce wildfire risk and capture carbon – Quetico Superior Wilderness News
- – Forest Service partners with researchers to transform wildfire fuel into biochar in Superior National Forest – WTIP