Assessment of Charcoal Production with Non-industrial Kiln Technologies

The transition toward a circular, low-carbon bioeconomy requires decentralized and innovative technologies capable of converting poorly managed biomass into value-added products under real operating conditions. This study evaluates the technical and economic performance of a modernized non-industrial mobile kiln prototype designed for the thermochemical conversion of agro-forestry residues through slow pyrolysis. Developed within the framework of the INGECA and BIOACTAM projects, the system features a 4 m³ processing capacity built with COR-TEN steel and incorporates an automated feeding and temperature monitoring unit. Methodological evaluations combined technical observation of field operations, work time-motion analysis (from loading to bagging), and cost estimations under variable operational conditions. The results indicate that while unit production costs are higher than industrial-scale alternatives, the system provides significant logistical flexibility, localized transport cost reductions, and low initial investment barriers. With an estimated payback period of 2 to 5 years and a biochar market value up to €1000–1500 per ton, this technology demonstrates high potential for short bioenergy supply chains and rural economic stimulation [1-2].