Inertinite Benchmark Method (IBRo2) / Random Reflectance (Ro) - Analysis

Inertinite Benchmark Method (IBRo2) / Random Reflectance (Ro) - AnalysisThis analytical package includes Random Reflectance (Ro) and molar H C ratio measurements to quantify inertinite carbon content and assess biochar permanence. It includes a detailed digital interpretive report, digital verification, and certification, highlighting production efficacy and key quality indicators, including thermal diffusivity.. Whats Included: 1. Random Reflectance Analysis Preparation of Polished Pellet: Each sample undergoes resin

This analytical package includes Random Reflectance (Ro) and molar H/C ratio measurements to quantify inertinite carbon content and assess biochar permanence. It includes a detailed digital interpretive report, digital verification, and certification, highlighting production efficacy and key quality indicators, including thermal diffusivity..  

What’s Included:

1. Random Reflectance Analysis

• Preparation of Polished Pellet: Each sample undergoes resin mounting, grinding, and polishing to create a scratch-free, mechanically polished surface, according to ISO 7404-2:2009, PN-EN 1860-2:2006, or PN-ISO 13909-4:2005 standards.
• Measurement of Mean Random Reflectance (Ro): We conduct 500 point measurements of reflected white light on the polished surface of biochar fragments, using an optical microscope (ISO 7404-5:2009).
• Volumetric Random Reflectance (Ro): By measuring the volume distribution of random reflectance across the biochar sample, we define the percentage of inertinite and semi-inertinite content (Sanei et al., 2024; ITPE Procedure and ISO 7404-5:2009).

Random Reflectance is the only rigorously calibrated empirical measurement of carbon permanence, grounded in decades of geological observations of sedimentary deposits. Unlike bulk value measurements, this method provides a spatial distribution of carbonization and carbon permanence across biochar particles in a single sample. In this analysis, the inertinite content of biochar is assessed by measuring the volumetric random reflectance (Ro) using optical microscopy with a photometry system. The fraction of biochar with Ro values exceeding 2%, known as the Inertinite Benchmark (IBRo2%), is identified as the permanently sequestered carbon on an ash-free, dry basis.

Furthermore, Ro enables the estimation of carbonization temperature (CT, °C) and its comparison with the pyrolysis production temperature (PT, °C), revealing any thermal inefficiencies during pyrolysis. Our report includes recommendations to optimize pyrolysis methods, aiming to enhance the homogeneity of the biochar and increase carbon stability.

2. Elemental Analysis

• Carbon and Hydrogen Analysis (Dry Basis): We conduct Carbon (C) and Hydrogen (H) elemental analyses following ISO 29541:2010. This assessment, which includes a molar H/C ratio, is critical for evaluating biochar’s carbon sequestration potential and structural stability as well as its efficiency in carbonization.

3. Consultation

• 60-Minute Online Presentation and Consultation: Premium Members receive a personalized 60-minute online consultation to review the results in detail and discuss further applications.