A comprehensive review of the effects of biochar on soil physicochemical properties and crop productivity

Intensive land use has several detrimental effects on land function and imposes an undue burden on the environment. Continuous farming and pollution by heavy metals have negatively influenced many soils. Biochar is now gaining attention as a major research subject in the areas of agriculture, environment, and energy as an eco-friendly soil conditioner. The use of biochar for agricultural and environmental purposes has been widely studied and reviewed. Unfortunately, there are few reviews on biochar structures and other biochar uses. This review presents an overview of current developments in the effects of numerous biochar physicochemical properties and biochar uses, such as utilization as a soil microbial activity, contaminant adsorbent, ion exchange, soil amendment, gas storage and water retention. The physical, chemical and biological properties have been discussed following amendments to the soil and conditions of preparation. However, scientific observation and research are required to identify the negative effects of biochar in preparations and applications. It is envisaged that further in-depth studies of biochar amendment will lead to a deeper understanding of biochar's relationships with soils and that reviews of the negative impacts of biochar could reveal ways in which they might be mitigated.