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SeaChar · Project in development

Exploring carbon storage through marine biochar.

SeaChar explores the conversion of sustainably sourced marine biomass into biochar through pyrolysis, with the aim of developing durable carbon storage and useful co-products.

The concept pathway

From seaweed to useful biochar

SeaChar is exploring a marine biomass-to-biochar pathway in Iceland. This sequence shows the proposed process and candidate applications.

Research and development concept. Product suitability, durable carbon storage and environmental benefits still need to be established.

  1. Conceptual seaweed cultivation: kelp hangs beneath a supported line in Icelandic coastal water.

    Grow kelp

    Explore kelp cultivation close to Icelandic harbours.

  2. A small workboat lifts kelp from the water into a collection basket. The drawing represents the proposed near-harbour supply chain.

    Harvest locally

    Bring harvested kelp ashore for processing, with short transport distances as a design goal.

  3. Harvested kelp is washed, dewatered and dried before conversion. The two illustrations show a wash vessel and drying racks; equipment is schematic.

    Wash and dry

    Manage salt and moisture, with low-carbon heat proposed for drying.

  4. A schematic closed thermal-conversion vessel turns prepared kelp into a solid biochar product. Pyrolysis means heating with little oxygen; the equipment drawing is conceptual.

    Convert to biochar

    Heat the prepared biomass with little oxygen to create a carbon-rich solid.

  5. Biochar pieces, sample vials and a magnifying glass represent material characterisation, including salt, contaminants and carbon stability. No test result is implied.

    Test the biochar

    Assess composition, salt, contaminants and carbon stability before choosing applications.

  6. Three candidate applications branch from biochar: soil applications, compost blends and construction materials. Suitability remains subject to testing and relevant requirements.

    Explore potential uses

    Investigate soil applications, compost blends and construction materials, subject to testing.

The concept

SeaChar is a research and development initiative focused on the connection between marine resources, carbon storage and circular resource use. Its proposed approach converts sustainably sourced marine biomass into biochar through pyrolysis. The objective is to establish a pathway that could retain carbon in a durable form while creating useful products.

Research with a practical purpose

The project aims to explore applications that can support soil health and more efficient use of biological resources. These remain development objectives. The evidence needed to substantiate carbon storage, product performance and environmental benefit will shape the project's future direction.

Surefni’s role

Surefni is the applicant for SeaChar Iceland — Sustainable Seaweed Carbon Loop, which was awarded support in the 2025 general funding round of Iceland’s Climate and Energy Fund. SeaChar forms part of our research and project-development work, with the aim of building a sound technical foundation for its proposed climate and resource benefits.

Project references

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