Comparative trial of an Air Curtain Burner and a CharBoss
April 24-28, 2023
East Copeland Lane, off Highway 89 North, Second entrance on right, Location coordinates: 35.313239, -111.546923
Equipment
Equipment Description: ACBs are used to dispose of slash and other biomass residues in a way that significantly reduces smoke and other emissions. The method works by blocking various air pollutant emissions, including particulate matter, by using high velocity airflow, referred to as an “air curtain.” At the same time, they also minimize ember escapes, soil damage, and burn scars. The CharBoss, also made by Air Burners, Inc., has the added benefit of producing biochar as a forest product. Biochar is a high carbon material that adds soil organic matter and can improve soil nutrient retention and water holding capacity. Biochar makes an excellent addition to compost.
Open House Days: Members of the public are invited to observe the trial operation and learn about biomass disposal and biochar production on Tuesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 27, 2023, between 10:00am and 4:00pm. East Copeland Lane, off Highway 89 North, Second entrance on right, Location coordinates: 35.313239, -111.546923
Meet and interact with the trial’s key collaborators:
- Han-Sup Han, Ph.D., Professor and Director of Forest Operations and Biomass Utilization, Ecological Restoration Institute, Northern Arizona University
- Jay Smith, Forest Restoration Director, Coconino County Flood Control District
- Deborah Page-Dumroese, Ph.D., Senior Scientist & Research Soil Scientist, USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station
- Nate Anderson, Ph.D., Research Forester, USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station
- Christopher Jones, Extension Agent, Forest Health Programs, University of Arizona, Gila County Cooperative Extension
For more information, contact Chris Jones at ckjones@arizona.edu, (928) 402-8586; or Dr. Han-sup Han at Han-Sup.Han@nau.edu, (928) 523-1049.
