Wastewater Remediation: Versatile and Effective

Biochar, a low-cost and eco-friendly material, has gained attention as an effective adsorbent for removing a wide range of contaminants from wastewater, including heavy metals, nitrogen, phosphorus, and microbial pollutants. Its large surface area, porous structure, and mineral components contribute to its high efficiency in pollutant absorption through mechanisms such as hydrophobic interaction, pore filling, electrostatic adsorption, and hydrogen bonding.

One of the key advantages of biochar lies in its ability to reduce the mobilisation of agrochemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers, antibiotics, and heavy metals in wastewater. Its sponge-like properties allow it to absorb up to four times its weight in carbon, making it a powerful tool for water purification. Additionally, biochar’s ability to increase moisture content in stormwater limits pathogen growth, further contributing to water quality improvement. When mixed with sand, biochar has been shown to reduce E. coli levels in stormwater, highlighting its potential in pathogen control.

Biochar’s versatility extends to various applications, including drinking water treatment, irrigation, and industrial processes. Its use in adsorption processes provides a promising and efficient means of removing organic dyes from wastewater, demonstrating its broad applicability in water treatment. However, the proper disposal of biochar after use is crucial to ensuring the sustainability and environmental impact of biochar-based adsorption methods. By addressing this aspect, biochar can continue to serve as a sustainable solution for reducing water pollution and improving overall water quality.