Outer space migration, soil first: Preparation of soil like matrix by co-pyrolysis of coal gangue and biomass
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: As Earth's technological prowess advances apace and its resources wane, traditional soil is increasingly inadequate for agricultural demands, and the environmental degradation of our planet intensifies. Consequently, humanity is compelled to pivot their investigative gaze towards the cosmos. Soil, a critical component for human sustenance, is at the forefront of this exploration. This research introduces a novel approach to crafting substrates akin to soil from solid waste, advocating for the co-pyrolysis of coal gangue and biomass. This method leverages indigenous resources, blending coal gangue with biomass to scrutinize the impact of high-temperature pyrolysis parameters, the quantity of biomass introduced, and the duration of co-pyrolysis on the leaching toxicity and soil-like characteristics of the end products. The findings from the experiments demonstrate that the co-pyrolysis process can effectively encapsulate and neutralize the hazardous elements present in coal gangue. Moreover, it catalyzes the liberation and sequestration of essential plant nutrients from both coal gangue and biomass, thereby enriching the soil. This study not only delineates a viable strategy for the extensive utilization of coal gangue but also posits that the co-pyrolysis byproducts could serve as a nutritious soil alternative for extraterrestrial colonization endeavors. In doing so, it achieves a dual-purpose solution, aligning with both environmental and space exploration objectives.
Source: Industrial Crops and Products
Authors: Qiang Niu, Fenghui Wu, Dandan Chen, Yuanchuan Ren, Xuejun Zhu
Institution: Panzhihua University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,720
OpenAlex ID: W4407686801