Thermal and Hydrothermal Conversion of Poultry Litter for Biochar and Energy

Thermal and hydrothermal conversion of poultry litter via pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrothermal carbonisation produces biochar, ash, and biogas, enabling nutrient recovery and green energy generation. These processes support carbon sequestration in soils, with biochars and ashes classified as organic (PFC 3(A)) or inorganic (PFC 3(B)) soil improvers under the Fertilising Products Regulation. Challenges include nitrogen-containing tars, limited off-gas nutrient recovery, regulatory delays from EFSA, and the need for long-term trials to validate carbon storage. Applications in aviation fuels highlight sector expansion potential.