BIOCALMA focuses on exploring new sorbent materials for thermochemical cooling cycles based on biochar derived from abundant agro-industrial waste in Extremadura. The project will investigate the ideal carbonization/activation conditions to develop porosity and generate surface functionalities in the sorbents that allow for subsequent reversible desorption of the sorbate. This innovative approach addresses two key problems in the region: the management of agro-industrial waste and the growing need for cooling systems that improve the energy efficiency of buildings. The expected results will include: (i) new biochar-based sorbent materials for adsorption cooling cycles, (ii) a solid understanding of the kinetics and thermodynamics of the adsorption and desorption processes in these carbonaceous materials, and (iii) the evaluation of their performance in a test bench operating a thermochemical cycle adapted to the climatic parameters and energy needs of Extremadura.
