This study evaluates the existence of toxic compounds in thermomechanical pulp sludge (TMPS) derived biochars obtained through a slow pyrolysis process and establishes the criteria for manufacturing benign-quality biochar for safe greenhouse-based food production. Accordingly, nine TMPS biochars generated at different temperatures (450, 500, 550 °C) and residence times (30, 60, 120 min) were investigated. Depending on the production conditions, the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) sum varied from 0.4 to 236 μg/g biochar. Interestingly, correlations between the PAH content, toxicity, and process conditions were derived in the form of process toxicity relationships (PTRs). On the basis of the learning garnered in this study, it is recommended that TMPS feedstock will yield benign quality biochar when processed at a minimum 500 °C temperature for an optimum residence time of 30 min.
Keywords: PAHs; bio-assay; biochar; greenhouse food safety; pulp sludge; toxicity.