Synthesizing the biochar from Gelam tree leaves by pyrolysis method

Abstract

Melaleuca Cajuputi or known as Gelam Tree is widely used in the folk medicine of South-Eastern Asia. It also has medicinal and food properties. In synthesizing the Cajuputi biochar, Melaleuca Cajuputi leaves as the raw materials, went pyrolysis process at different temperatures; 300 °C ,400 °C and 500 °C. The maximum yield of biochar was obtained from pyrolysis at 300 ^oC and the least yield was exhibited from pyrolysis at 500 ^oC. The obtained biochars were characterized by using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The spectra showed the presence of O-H, -COOH, C-O and O=C=O functional groups.