Results from a recent analysis of two MASH Makes Biochar samples showed that our biochar contains over 99% inertinite. This shows that it is an exceptionally stable and durable form of carbon storage. 

What is biochar, and why does stability matter?

Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced by heating organic matter, such as agricultural waste, in a low-oxygen environment. This process, called carbonisation, locks carbon into a solid form. Biochar has multiple applications, including improving soil quality and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, making it a powerful tool for addressing climate change.

However, the effectiveness of biochar for carbon storage depends on its stability—how long it keeps carbon locked away. This is where inertinite comes in.

Defining inertinite

Inertinite is a highly stable, carbon-rich material that resists decomposition for centuries, if not millennia. Its presence in biochar is a strong indicator of permanence, meaning the carbon won’t easily re-enter the atmosphere.

The recent analysis of our biochar showed:

• 99+% inertinite content, with very little reactive carbon.
• An exceptionally high reflectance of over 4%—a measure of carbon structure that highlights its stability.
• A narrow range of values, demonstrating the consistency of our carbonisation process.

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Graph: Results from the analysis show that MASH Makes biochar is composed almost entirely of inertinite. 

What does this mean for carbon storage?

High inertinite content is good news for anyone seeking permanent carbon sequestration solutions, such as carbon credit buyers, soil improvement advocates, or environmental stakeholders.

“These findings indicate an incredibly efficient carbonisation process. The result is what is known as ‘Inertinite Biochar’, one of the most stable forms of stored carbon.” - Professor Hamed Sanei, Director of the Lithospheric Carbon Lab, Aarhus University

Benefits of Inertinite biochar include:

• Stability: It locks carbon away for the long term.
• Consistency: Its durable structure ensures reliable results for soil enhancement and other uses.
• Quality: High carbon content and precision reflect a premium, high-performance product.

These results represent a promising step towards positioning our biochar as one of the most reliable carbon solutions on the market.

Stay tuned as we continue our journey to deliver innovative carbon removal solutions and help tackle climate change with technology and science.

Details on the analysis

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Graphic: Reflectance analysis of our biochar reveals a consistent inertinite content with a reflectance value (Rr) of 4.4%. This indicates high carbon stability and quality, essential for effective carbon sequestration and long-term soil enhancement. The narrow range and low skewness confirm uniformity in production, ensuring reliable performance for agricultural applications.

The analysis was conducted in collaboration with leading researchers, including:

• Professor Hamed Sanei (Lithospheric Organic Carbon Lab, Aarhus University)
• Dr. Arka Rudra (Aarhus University)
• Professor Henrik Ingermann Petersen (GEUS)

While these results reflect initial snapshots of our biochar production under specific thermal conditions, they highlight the incredible potential of our processes. As part of the next phase, researchers are working to make the carbonisation process even more predictable and optimised using AI-based models.

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