Thomas Hoffmann

Thomas Hoffmann is a senior researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB) in Potsdam, Germany, where he has served as Head of the Department of Post Harvest Technology since 2008. He holds a Diplom in mechanical engineering from TU Dresden (1991) and a Doctorate (Dr. rer. agr.) from Humboldt University Berlin (1998).

• Research Focus: Hydrothermal biomass processing, biochar production, biogas optimization, and sustainable bioeconomy.
• Leadership: Leads the Leibniz Innovation Farm for Sustainable Bioeconomy and chairs the VDI LAND.TECHNIK advisory board.

His work integrates process engineering with environmental science to address challenges in biomass valorization, including:

• Hydrothermal humification (HTH) for artificial humic acid production
• Phytotoxicity mitigation in hydrochar applications
• Carbon recovery strategies for circular agriculture
• Climate-resilient soil amendment using biochar

Recent publications demonstrate expertise in transforming cow manure digestate and agricultural residues into value-added products while enhancing biomethane yields. Key techniques include:

• FTIR and UV–vis spectroscopic characterization
• ICP-OES elemental analysis
• Van Krevelen diagram interpretation
• Biogas yield optimization

Collaborative projects span Kenya food security initiatives, European circular agrifood systems, and Brandenburg historical garden preservation.