ABSTRACT
In the present study, two different by-products, pecan shells, and sawdust obtained from
the region of Chania, Crete, Greece, were subjected to slow pyrolysis over a temperature
range of 250–550°C, for the production of biochar. The quality of the produced biochars was
assessed by evaluating their main properties, namely pyrolysis yield, pH, volatile matter
and char content, surface area, and C, H, S, N content. Thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy were
used for the identification of the morphology and structure of the produced biochars. The
potential of selected pecan shells and sawdust biochars to adsorb Pb and Cu from synthetic
solutions was also assessed.