International Journal of Environment and Climate Change

Biochar produced through lignocellulosic-biomass pyrolysis may improve tropical soil fertility and provide feedstock for charcoal briquettes. This study characterised coconut-shell biochars produced with a locally fabricated pyrolyser under the Agri-resilience project in Porto-Novo and Comè-Grand-Popo, Benin, between December 2025 and February 2026. Analyses conducted at the 2A2S2E laboratory covered major elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na), trace elements (Zn, Mn, Cu and Fe), organic matter, organic carbon, ash, moisture, dry matter, pH and particle-size distribution. Results were compared with International Biochar Initiative and European Biochar Certificate criteria, and measurement reproducibility was assessed using coefficients of variation. Both biochars broadly complied with the selected IBI criteria for most valid parameters. Porto-Novo biochar contained more than 50% organic carbon and approximately 86.5% organic matter, indicating potential suitability as an agricultural amendment. Comè biochar had a more alkaline pH and higher calcium content, but its measured ash content of 7.9–11.5% may constrain direct energy use. Reproducibility was satisfactory for most parameters, although Fe, Na and Ca exceeded the 5% variability threshold. Improved production control, sample homogenisation and laboratory mass-balance verification are required before definitive use-specific recommendations are made.