Biochar from Chlorella sp. algae as a plant growth activator
Karolina Dziosa, Monika Makowska
Abstract
Modern agriculture has been looking for effective and ecological sources supporting plant growth, but there are no natural stimulants on the market. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of biochar obtained from the biomass of microalgae Chlorella sp. on the process of germination of radish seeds. The analysis pertained to power and output power, length and strength of seedlings and chlorophyll content. Biochar obtained as a result of the pyrolysis process (400°C) was characterised by a porous structure, the occurrence of functional groups in the bands from 2000–1500 cm −1 to 1500–650 cm −1 . In the available material, there is a D range in the range of 1351–1361 cm −1 , which corresponds to unordered carbon structures, and a G range in the range of 1579–1588 cm −1 , acting from counteracting vibrations. obtained biochar used as a stimulator of radish seed germination. The obtained biochar was tested as a stimulator of radish seed germination. Seed germination measurements consisted of determining the average germination time (1.12 for the sample fed with biochar and 1.87 for the control sample), germination energy of 93% and 88%, respectively, a germination capacity of 97% and 92%, and chlorophyll a and b content. The results indicate that biochar from Chlorella sp . biomass can act as a seed growth stimulant, which is not only an innovative application, but also a potential solution in the context of sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.