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Effective dewatering is vital for both sludge treatment and resource recovery. This study focuses on converting post-anaerobic digested sludge into biochar to enhance sludge dewatering. The sludge-derived biochar is further modified with polyacrylamide (PAM-ADBC) and applied with sulfuric acid-modified montmorillonite (HMTS) for better performance. Significant advancements in dewatering were noted, even at reduced HMTS (0.1 g/g DS) and PAM-ADBC (25 g/kg DS) dosages. These improvements resulted in a remarkable 41.96% enhancement in capillary suction time (17.2 s) and a notable 20.26% reduction in moisture content (66.33%), respectively, all while maintaining a stable pH level. HMTS, with leached cations, improved dewatering by decomposing the extracellular polymeric substance structure through electro-neutralization to release the internal bound water within sludge flocs. Simultaneously, PAM-ADBC coagulated decomposed sludge particles into larger flocs to form a skeletal structure with itself to discharge internal water in compression dewatering. This study introduces a resource recovery method for anaerobically digested sludge and highlights its potential for sustainable utilization. [Display omitted] • A novel PAM modified anaerobic digested sludge-based biochar (PAM-ADBC) prepared. • A sulfuric acid modified montmorillonite (HMTS) prepared. • Improvement achieved in capillary suction time (by 42%) and moisture content (20%). • PAM-ADBC and HMTS exhibited synergistic enhancing effects on sludge dewatering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the successful synthesis of Magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide composite phosphate-modified hydrothermal biochar for efficient removal of U(VI) from aqueous solutions. A novel synthesis approach involving phosphate thermal polymerization-hydrothermal method was employed, deviating from conventional pyrolysis methods, to produce hydrothermal biochar. The combination of solvent thermal polymerization technique with hydrothermal process facilitated efficient loading of layered double hydroxide (LDH) components onto the biochar surface, ensuring simplicity, low energy consumption and enhanced modifiability. Bamboo waste was utilized as the precursor for biochar, highlighting its superior green and sustainable characteristics. Additionally, this study elucidated the interactions between phosphate-modified hydrothermal biochar and LDH components with U(VI). Physicochemical analysis demonstrated that the composite biochar possessed a high surface area and abundant oxygen-containing functional groups. XPS and FTIR analyses confirmed the efficient adsorption of U(VI), attributed to chelation interactions between phosphate groups, magnesium hydroxyl groups, hydroxyl groups and U(VI), as well as the co-precipitation of U(VI) with multi-hydroxyl aluminum cations captured by LDH. The composite biochar reached adsorption equilibrium with U(VI) within 80 min and exhibited excellent fitting to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model. Under conditions of pH = 4 and 298 K, it displayed significantly high maximum adsorption capacity of approximately 388.81 mg g⁻1, surpassing untreated biochar by 17-fold. The adsorption process was found to be endothermic and spontaneous and even after five consecutive adsorption-desorption cycles, the removal efficiency of U(VI) remained stable at 75.46%. These findings underscore the promising application prospects of Magnesium-aluminum layered double hydroxide composite phosphate-modified hydrothermal biochar in efficiently separating U(VI) from uranium-containing wastewater, emphasizing its environmental and economic value. [Display omitted] • An innovative combined solvent thermal polymerization and water bath strategy. • Environmental value and economic potential of bamboo waste-derived adsorbents. • Interaction of -PO 4 groups and LDH components with U(VI) is critical for adsorption. • Hydrothermal biochar grafted phosphate-loaded Mg–Al layered double hydroxide for efficient removal of hexavalent uranium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feedstock characteristics impact biochar physicochemical properties, and reproducible biochar properties are essential for any potential application. However, in most articles, feedstock aspects (i.e., taxonomic name of the species, part of the plant, and phenological phase) are scarcely reported. This research aimed at studying the effect of species and phenological stage of the feedstock on the properties of the derived biochars and, thus, adsorption capacities in water treatment. In this study, we analysed the anatomical characteristics of three different woody bamboo species [ Guadua chacoensis (GC) , Phyllostachys aurea (PA) , and Bambusa tuldoides (BT)] in culms harvested at two different phenological phases (young and mature), and statistically correlated them with the characteristics of the six derived biochars, including their adsorption performance in aqueous media. Sclerenchyma fibres and parenchyma cells diameter and cell-wall width significantly differed among species. Additionally, sclerenchyma fibres and parenchyma cell-wall width as well as sclerenchyma fibre cell diameters are dependent on the phenological phase of the culms. Consequently, differences in biochar characteristics (i.e., yield and average pore diameter) were also observed, leading to differential methylene blue (MB) adsorption capacities between individuals at different phenological phases. MB adsorption capacities were higher for biochar produced from young culms compared to those obtained from matures ones (i.e., GC: 628.66 vs. 507.79; BT: 537.45 vs. 477.53; PA: 477.52 vs. 462.82 mg/g), which had smaller cell wall widths leading to a lower percentage of biochar yield. The feedstock anatomical properties determined biochar characteristics which modulated adsorption capacities. [Display omitted] • Culms and biochars were anatomically (LM and SEM), elementary (CHNS), and statistically analysed (GLM). • Feedstock's anatomical variables define biochar physicochemical properties. • Biochar yield and average pore diameter differed with bamboo species and phenological phases. • Methylene blue adsorption capacities were higher when biochar came from young culms. • Young culms had thinner cell wall widths and lower biochar yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous removal of anionic and cationic heavy metals presents a challenge for adsorbents. In this study, acetate (Ac-) was utilized as the intercalating anion for layered double hydroxide (LDH) to prepare a novel biochar composite adsorbent (Ac-LB) designed for the adsorption of Pb(II), Cu(II), and As(V). By utilizing Ac- as the intercalating anion, the interlayer space of the LDH was enlarged from 0.803 nm to 0.869 nm, exposing more adsorption sites for the LDH and enhancing the affinity for heavy metals. The results of the adsorption experiments showed that the adsorption effect of Ac-LB on heavy metals was significantly improved compared to the original FeMg-LDH modified biochar composites (LB), and the maximum adsorption capacity of Pb(II), Cu(II), and As(V) were 402.70, 68.50, and 21.68 mg/g, respectively. Wastewater simulation tests further confirmed the promising application of Ac-LB for heavy metal adsorption. The analysis of the adsorption mechanism revealed that surface complexation, electrostatic adsorption, and chemical deposition were the main mechanisms of action between heavy metals (Pb(II) and Cu(II)) and Ac-LB. Additionally, Cu(II) ions underwent a homogeneous substitution reaction with Ac-LB. The adsorption process of As(V) by Ac-LB mainly relied on complexation and ion-exchange reactions. Lastly, the modification of the LDH structure by Ac− as an intercalating anion, thereby increasing the affinity for heavy metals, was further illustrated using density-functional theory (DFT) calculations. [Display omitted] • Preparation of a composite with acetate as LDH intercalation ion. • Acetate as intercalating ion improved the adsorption capacity of the FeMg-LDH. • The mechanism of heavy metal adsorption was discussed. • The experimental results were verified by DFT calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion of floated paperboard sludge (PS) cake suffers from volatile fatty acids (VFAs) accumulation, nutrient unbalanced condition, and generation of digestate with a risk of secondary pollution. To overcome these drawbacks, sewage sludge (SS) was added to PS cake for biogas recovery improvement under a co-digestion process followed by the thermal treatment of solid fraction of digestate for biochar production. Batch experimental assays were conducted at different SS:PS mixing ratios of 70:30, 50:50, 30:70, and 20:80 (w/w), and their anaerobic co-digestion performances were compared to the mono-digestion systems at 35 ± 0.2 °C for 45 days. The highest methane yield (MY) of 241.68 ± 14.81 mL/g COD removed was obtained at the optimum SS:PS ratio of 50:50 (w/w). This experimental condition was accompanied by protein, carbohydrate, and VFA conversion efficiencies of 47.3 ± 3.2%, 46.8 ± 3.2%, and 56.3 ± 3.8%, respectively. The synergistic effect of SS and PS cake encouraged the dominance of Bacteroidota (23.19%), Proteobacteria (49.65%), Patescibacteria (8.12%), and Acidovorax (12.60%) responsible for hydrolyzing the complex organic compounds and converting the VFAs into biomethane. Further, the solid fraction of digestate was subjected to thermal treatment at a temperature of 500 °C for 2.0 h, under an oxygen-limited condition. The obtained biochar had a yield of 0.48 g/g dry digestate, and its oxygen-to-carbon (O/C), carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N), and carbon-to-phosphorous (C/P) ratios were 0.55, 10.23, and 16.42, respectively. A combined anaerobic co-digestion/pyrolysis system (capacity 50 m3/d) was designed based on the COD mass balance experimental data and biogenic CO 2 market price of 22 USD/ton. This project could earn profits from biogas (12,565 USD/yr), biochar (6641 USD/yr), carbon credit (8014 USD/yr), and COD shadow price (6932 USD/yr). The proposed project could maintain a payback period of 6.60 yr. However, further studies are required to determine the associated life cycle cost model that is useful to validate the batch experiment assumptions. Image created with Biorender.com under Agreement number: VB26T4VGHU. [Display omitted] • Paperboard sludge cake and sewage sludge improved methanogenic community. • Optimum PS:SS ratio was 50:50 (w/w), giving methane yield of 242 mL/g COD removed. • Proteiniphilum , Brevundimonas , Methanobacterium were dominant genera. • Digestate was pyrolyzed into biochar with O/C, C/N, C/P ratios of 0.55, 10.23, 16.42 • Combined anaerobic co-digestion/pyrolysis is feasible with 6.60 yr payback period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enrichment of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) in aquatic systems can cause eutrophication. Moreover, P rocks may become exhausted in the next 100 years. A slow-release fertilizer called struvite (MgNH 4 PO 4.6H 2 O) can reduce surface runoff. However, the high cost of raw material or chemicals is a bottleneck in their economical production. Therefore, incinerated sewage sludge ash, food wastewater, and bittern were combined as the sources of P, N, and Mg, respectively. Sawdust biochar was used to enhance the adsorptive recovery of nutrients. First, recovery kinetics was studied by comparing bittern-impregnated biochar (BtB) with the Mg-impregnated biochar (MgB). Subsequently, the synergistic physical and chemical interactions were observed for P and N recovery. Almost complete PO 4 3–P recoveries were achieved within 10 min for both biochars. However, NH 4 +-N recovery was stable after 2 h, with 26% recovery by MgB and 20% recovery by BtB. Biochars activated with steam (steam-activated biochar) and KOH (KOH-activated biochar) gave superior activities to those of unactivated biochars and activated carbon (AC) nutrient recovery and struvite purity. Moreover, the activated biochars showed a lower risk of surface runoff, similar to that of AC. Therefore, activated biochars can be used as an alternative to AC for economical struvite production from a combination of wastewater sources. [Display omitted] • Phosphorus and nitrogen enrichment spur eutrophication; P rocks may vanish within a century. • Struvite (MgNH 4 PO 4.6H 2 O) reduces runoff but faces cost hurdles. • Incinerated sewage sludge ash, food wastewater, and bittern cut expenses for P, N, and Mg; sawdust biochar aids recovery. • BtB and MgB show rapid PO 4 3–P recovery in 10 min, stable NH 4 +-N recovery in 2 h. • Steam- and KOH-activated biochars surpass unactivated ones and AC, offering economical struvite from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety and health of aquatic organisms and humans are threatened by the increasing presence of pollutants in the environment. Endocrine disrupting chemicals are common pollutants which affect the function of endocrine and causes adverse effects on human health. These chemicals can disrupt metabolic processes by interacting with hormone receptors upon consumptions by humans or aquatic species. Several studies have reported the presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals in waterbodies, food, air and soil. These chemicals are associated with increasing occurrence of obesity, metabolic disorders, reproductive abnormalities, autism, cancer, epigenetic variation and cardiovascular risk. Conventional treatment processes are expensive, not environment friendly and unable to achieve complete removal of these harmful chemicals. In recent years, biochar from different sources has gained a considerable interest due to their adsorption efficiency with porous structure and large surface areas. biochar derived from lignocellulosic biomass are widely used as sustainable catalysts in soil remediation, carbon sequestration, removal of organic and inorganic pollutants and wastewater treatment. This review conceptualizes the production techniques of biochar from lignocellulosic biomass and explores the functionalization and interaction of biochar with endocrine-disrupting chemicals. This review also identifies the further needs of research. Overall, the environmental and health risks of endocrine-disrupting chemicals can be dealt with by biochar produced from lignocellulosic biomass as a sustainable and prominent approach. [Display omitted] • Valorization of lignocellulosic biomass as biochar for EDC adsorption was explored. • Biomass criteria, properties and benefits of biochar were conscientiously reviewed. • Biochar mediated removal of EDC has been critically evaluated. • Engineered lignocellulosic based biochars' binding mechanisms to EDC investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is an environmentally friendly material with great potential for carbon capture and storage. As the first of its kind, waste biomass-derived biochar was utilized to convert CO 2 into fuel in solar. Herein, among four representatives herbaceous, woody, sludge, and manure wastes, the pine sawdust-derived biochar produced the highest CO assisted by higher CO 2 adsorption, more than 10 times higher than that of graphene and activated carbon. The function groups of carbonyl and carboxyl on biochar controlled the CO 2 capture and solar conversion by decreasing adsorption and activation energies of CO 2 molecules. The biochar performed even better for 15% CO 2 /N 2 atmosphere, a typical CO 2 concentration in the flue gas, demonstrating its promising potential in waste gas resource utilization. The life-cycle assessment indicates that feedstock with more cellulose and lignin provide better environmental and economic benefits. The work highlights a sustainability pathway for waste biomass-derived biochar in CO 2 -to-fuel under ambient conditions. [Display omitted] • Waste biomass-derived biochar show excellent adsorption-photocatalytic CO 2. • Biochar have promising applications in utilization CO 2 in the industrial flue gas. • Carboxyl and carbonyl functional groups of biochar are the key to CO 2 conversion. • Waste biomass with more cellulose and lignin favor higher environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational reuse of municipal sludge to produce electro-Fenton electrode can not only save resources, but also produce superior peroxide and degradation pollutants simultaneously. Herein, a novel electro-Fenton electrode derived from sludge biochar loaded on Ni foam (SBC@Ni) was constructed via high temperature pyrolysis and chemical coating for efficient H 2 O 2 evolution and pollutant degradation. Systematic experiments and density functional theory calculations (DFT calculation) explained that the production of graphite C and graphite N during high-temperature pyrolysis of municipal sludge can greatly enhance the oxygen reduction reaction of SBC@Ni electrode and promote the evolution of H 2 O 2. And the hybrid heterojunctions, such as FeP, also played a key role in electrocatalytic processes. Notably, the electrode still exhibited excellent performance after 1000 linear scans and 12 h of continuous current stimulation, which demonstrated the excellent stability of the electrode. Moreover, SBC@Ni electrode can not only effectively oxidize 4-chlorophenol through the electro-Fenton effect, but also fully mineralize organic matter, indicating promising environmental application. The free radical quenching experiment also revealed that the ·OH is the main active species for 4-CP degradation in SBC@Ni electro-Fenton system. [Display omitted] • The Ni biochar electrode effectively promoted the electro-Fenton reaction. • High-temperature pyrolysis contributed to the formation of Graphite-C/N. • DFT proved that Graphite-C/N can accelerate the 2e– ORR reaction. • Sludge biochar electrodes can efficiently and stably degrade and mineralize 4-CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe and N co-doped walnut shell biochar (Fe,N-BC) was prepared through a one-pot pyrolysis procedure by using walnut shells as feedstocks, melamine as the N source, and iron (III) chloride as the Fe source. Moreover, pristine biochar (BC), nitrogen-doped biochar (N-BC), and α-Fe 2 O 3 -BC were synthesized as controls. All the prepared materials were characterized by different techniques and were used for the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for the degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). A very high degradation rate for SMX (10 mg/L) was achieved with Fe,N-BC/PMS (0.5 min−1), which was higher than those for BC/PMS (0.026 min−1), N-BC/PMS (0.038 min−1), and α-Fe 2 O 3 -BC/PMS (0.33 min−1) under the same conditions. This is mainly due to the formation of Fe 3 C and iron oxides, which are very reactive for the activation of PMS. In the next step, Fe,N-BC was employed for the formation of a composite membrane structure by a liquid-induced phase inversion process. The synthesized ultrafiltration membrane not only exhibited high separation performance for humic acid sodium salt (HA, 98%) but also exhibited improved self-cleaning properties when applied for rhodamine B (RhB) filtration combined with a PMS solution cleaning procedure. Scavenging experiments revealed that 1O 2 was the predominant species responsible for the degradation of SMX. The transformation products of SMX and possible degradation pathways were also identified. Furthermore, the toxicity assessment revealed that the overall toxicity of the intermediate was lower than that of SMX. [Display omitted] • Fe and N co-doped biochar demonstrated an excellent degradation efficiency for SMX. • The synergistic effects of Fe and N co-doping on biochar properties were discussed. • 1O 2 are the main active species for the degradation of SMX in the Fe,N-BC/PMS system. • The separation and self-cleaning performances of the Fe,N-BC membrane were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to develop an intelligent system incorporating various mitigation technologies. In this investigation, three technologies; Direct Air Capture (DAC), Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), and Biochar production from pyrolysis are evaluated for their capacity to mitigate one million tonnes of CO 2. Process models are developed for each method, followed by techno-economic analyses and optimization to derive the most effective solution. The holistic approach considers objectives such as net energy gain, minimized water usage, and product sales. The results highlight BECCS as the most promising in terms of net energy gain, offering approximately 18.08 GJ, closely followed by Biochar, which offers about 15.08 GJ per 1 tonne of captured CO 2. Biochar stands out for its lower water consumption of 2.3 m³ compared to BECCS water consumption of 3.03 m³, while DAC exhibits higher water usage and demands extensive energy consumption of 11.95 GJ per 1 tonne of captured CO 2. Economic analysis reflects these scenarios, with Biochar, BECCS, and DAC presenting product sales of $756 million, $233 million, and $60 million, respectively. The optimization process revealed about 22 potential solutions based on energy, waste usage, and sales nexus. It suggests a system comprising 53% Biochar and 47% BECCS, considering the highest net energy gain, minimizedwater usage and cost and elevated technology maturity. [Display omitted] • Three key technologies; DAC, BECCS, and biochar are evaluated for net emissions. • DAC appears to involve a more extensive use of water and energy. • BECCS produced a higher net energy gain compared to other processes. • In economic parameters, biochar and BECCS have higher product selling values. • The optimal hybrid system (BECCS 47% and biochar 53%) for mitigating 1 Mt of CO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing efficient catalyst for peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation is beneficial for eliminating the adverse effects of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) on human health. A novel boron (B) and nitrogen (N) co-doped sludge biochar (BNSBC) was synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal activation, and its remarkable PMS activation performance facilitated the rapid elimination of SMX from water. The degradation rate of SMX by BNSBC/PMS system could reach 92.1% within 60 min ([SMX] 0 = 10 mg/L, [BNSBC] 0 = 0.4 g/L, [PMS] 0 = 1 mM). B and N exhibited the synergistic enhancement effects on the physico-chemical characteristics of SBC, and abundant pores, defects, C O, -O-B-O-, graphitic-N and pyridinic N were confirmed as the main active sites of BNSBC for PMS activation. Characterization, quenching, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and electrochemical tests proved that non-radicals of surface-bound, 1O 2 and electron transfer were the main contributors to SMX degradation. The high anti-interference of BNSBC/PMS system to pH range, co-existing inorganic anions and organic matter guaranteed its outstanding purification performance for SMX in diverse environmental waters. Four potential degradation pathways of SMX in BNSBC/PMS system were proposed by its intermediates identification and density functional theory (DFT) calculation, and pathway Ⅳ was the main one. The toxicity levels of its intermediates were lower than that of SMX regardless of chronic and acute toxicity. Also, BNSBC/PMS system exhibited the board-spectrum removal performance for other typical antibiotics (e.g., sulfadiazine (SDZ), sulfamethoxypyridazine (SMP), ciprofloxacin (CIP), tetracycline (TC)). BNSBC/PMS has great application potential for eliminating diverse antibiotics in actual wastewater due to its high tolerance to complex environmental conditions and outstanding detoxification ability, also it offers a harmless disposal approach for sludge. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonally shed bark of London Plane tree is an ideal source for biochar due to its high lignin content. Microplastics derived from plastic wastes has become a hot topic due to its potential threats to ecosystems. The aim of this work is to convert the shed bark into efficient London Plane bark biochar (LBC) adsorbents and investigate its application in microplastics adsorption. The effects of pyrolysis temperature on LBC structure, surface properties and microplastic adsorption were investigated and the best adsorption performance of 60.05 mg/L was found at the 550 °C-pyrolyzed LBC. The wet sieve-weighing method was applied to assess the adsorption effect of LBC and verified with thermogravimetric analysis. The adsorption of polystyrene (PS) particles on LBC was in accordance with the Sips isothermal model and the second-order-kinetics model. The robustness of LBCs and the adsorption mechanism were investigated. With the analysis from pore size distribution, SEM images, FTIR and XPS spectra, physical trapping, surface complexation, hydrogen bonding and π-π interaction all play key roles in the adsorption of PS onto the LBC surface. This study not only provides a new approach for the removal of microplastics, but also offers a broad perspective on the treatment of biomass waste. [Display omitted] • Biowaste was pyrolyzed into an efficient biochar adsorbent for microplastic and showed significant removal effect. • The effects of pyrolysis temperature on biochar structure, surface properties and microplastic adsorption were investigated. • The adsorption mechnism is investigated to provide ideas for the efficient microplastic adsorbents design. • Wet sieve-weighing method was creatively adopted to evaluate the adsorption capacity and proved to be highly operational and accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Spartina alterniflora as an invasive species has seriously threatened the native coastal ecosystem of China. There is a lack of effective management and utilization methods towards Spartina alterniflora at present. To realize the ecological remediation and resource utilization of Spartina alterniflora , the functional biochar (BC) materials were successfully prepared using Spartina alterniflora as the substrates via the high temperature calcination method, which were utilized for efficient removal of antibiotics. The biochar was further activated by ZnCl 2 (ZnBC) and optimized under different calcination temperatures and ZnCl 2 dosages to improve the adsorption ability. Among these biochar materials, the ZnCl 2 -activated biochar obtained under the mass ratio of Spartina alterniflora to ZnCl 2 of 1:5 and calcination temperature of 600 °C (ZnBC-600) exhibited the strongest adsorption performance towards sulfadiazine (SDZ) and ciprofloxacin (CIP), which can be attributed to the larger specific surface area, richer pore structure and more abundant surface oxygen-containing functional groups. Additionally, the adsorption kinetics and isotherms demonstrated that the adsorption of both SDZ and CIP onto ZnBC-600 (1:5) followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Freundlich model. At the same time, the performances of Spartina alterniflora biochar derived from different biomass were compared under the condition of activation with ZnCl 2 , presenting the superior performance of ZnCl 2 activated Spartina alterniflora biochar. Moreover, the adsorption mechanism of ZnBC-600 (1:5) was proposed, illustrating the crucial roles of effects of electrostatic attraction, pore filling, oxygen-containing groups complexation, π-π stacking and hydrogen bonding in the adsorption of antibiotics. Above all, this study not only provides a feasible strategy for the preparation of functional biochar derived from Spartina alterniflora for removing organic pollutants, but also opens up a new pathway for resource utilization of Spartina alterniflora. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of combating the contamination of water resources with emerging pollutants must be kept all the more in view by scientists, since such pollutants are harmful and pose challenges for traditional water treatment methods. The current study was designed to scrutinize the adsorption properties of a low-cost biochar for two pharmaceuticals in both single and binary systems. The work was focused on understanding how paracetamol (PARA) and diclofenac (DIC) co-adsorb, and it can serve as a beacon for similar studies, especially in modeling the adsorption processes of such systems. Using a low-cost biochar from pepper stem (PS) with a high surface area = 727.5 m2/g as adsorbent, experiments were carried out in both the single and binary systems to investigate the adsorption behavior of the mentioned pharmaceuticals. Results showed that, in the single system, the PS biochar demonstrates a slightly greater adsorption capability for both PARA and DIC, with a capacity of 354.66 and 256.10 mg/g, respectively, compared to its capacity for each pharmaceutical in the presence of the other in the solution. Interestingly, the effect of the presence of one of the pharmaceuticals on the thermodynamic parameters (ΔGº, ΔSº, and ΔHº) of the other was ignorable, and interactions such as hydrogen bonding, π-π, n-π, and anion-π interactions were at work for the adsorption processes, with different extends in each pharmaceutical-biochar case. On the other hand, the presence of one of the pharmaceuticals was effective on the kinetics of the adsorption process of the other and caused a decrease in its adsorption rate, especially in the initial stage of the process. Overall, in addition to the suitability of pepper stem biochar for PARA and DIC, results showed that the presence of one pharmaceutical is not influential on all the adsorption properties of the other, and the results can be exploited for studding similar systems. [Display omitted] • The adsorption properties of a low-cost biochar for two pharmaceuticals were scrutinized. • The capacity of biochar for each pharmaceutical was depended on the adsorption mechanism. • The effect of presence of one of the pharmaceuticals on thermodynamics of the other was ignorable. • Kinetic and isothermal properties were different in single and binary systems. • The results can be exploited as a beacon for studding similar systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunflower seed husk is a common oil crop by-product. In this study, the husk was used as a base material for preparing a new catalyst, referred to as Fe-Cu-biochar-MOFs. The new material was characterized by multiple nanoscale metal clusters with rough surfaces and irregular shapes, thus providing abundant reactive surface area and sites. The catalytic reactivity was tested using sulfadiazine (SDZ) through batch kinetic experiments, where Fe-Cu-biochar-MOFs were used to activate peroxydisulfate (PDS). The results indicate that the system was able to degrade 95.9% of SDZ within 60 minutes. Mechanistic investigations revealed that the presence of PDS converted Fe0 to Fe2+ and Cu0 to Cu+ in the Fe-Cu-biochar-MOFs, and the resulting Fe(Ⅱ) and Cu(I) ions facilitated the activation of PDS, resulting in abundant reactive oxygen species (1O 2 , SO 4 ∙ − and ∙ OH). This work provides a new approach of using waste agricultural by-products for the removal of environmental pollutants. [Display omitted] • FeCu-BC were obtained through facile one-pot synthesis and pyrolysis. • The characteristic can be significantly affected by adding different amount of biochar. • FeCu-BC 0.25 /PDS systems displayed best removal performance in acidic and neutral circumstance. • The C O functional groups and Fe-Cu compounds facilitated the generation of reactive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Phosphoric acid-modified biochar-supported nZVI is prepared. • BPA degradation rate reaches to 92.66 % within 60 min under optimized conditions. • The •OH, •SO 4 −, •O 2 −, and 1O 2 are involved in the PMS-based degradation of BPA. • The 1O 2 plays a prominent role in the degradation of BPA over PBC/nZVI/PMS system. • BPA is degraded through •OH-induced oxidation and SO 4 •−-induced hydroxylation. The degradation efficiency of bisphenol A (BPA) using sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes still requires further improvement. Herein, we prepared phosphoric acid-modified biochar-supported nZVI (PBC/nZVI) through liquid-phase reduction. Under optimized conditions, including a PBC/nZVI dosage of 1.2 g/L, pH 9.0, and PMS concentration of 2.0 mmol/L, the BPA degradation rate reached up to 92.66 % within 60 min with the mineralization rate of 45.5 %. The presence of Cl−, HCO 3 − and CO 3 2− promoted the degradation of BPA, while NO 3 − had minimal effect. Conversely, H 2 PO 4 − and humic acid exhibited varying degrees of inhibition. The degradation of BPA involved four reactive oxygen species (•OH, SO 4 •−, O 2 •−, and 1O 2), with 1O 2 playing a prominent role. The pathways of •OH-induced oxidation and SO 4 •−-induced hydroxylation were identified as the mechanisms through which BPA was degraded. These findings highlighted the potential of PBC/nZVI as a rapid and efficient material for BPA degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Simple composite method to encapsulate biochar in a gel network. • CrO 4 2− as a bridge for synergistic adsorption of dyes. • Column adsorption simulation to explore the potential of adsorbents. • High cyclic stability of the adsorbent. With the continuous development of industrialization, dyes in industrial wastewater have become a serious environmental issue. To address this environmental issue, a biochar-based composite hydrogel (PAS/aBC-CD) was designed. The use of a simple composite method effectively resolves the challenge of biochar recovery. Furthermore, the modified adsorbent exhibits remarkably high adsorption capacities for all three dyes (MB: 1494 mg/g, MG: 1182 mg/g, and NR: 1031.6 mg/g). It is noteworthy that binary co-adsorption experiments have demonstrated that CrO 4 2− can act as a bridging agent to enhance the adsorption of dyes by the adsorbent. Systematic adsorption–desorption experiments have demonstrated the outstanding recyclability of PAS/aBC-CD, maintaining 98 % of its adsorption capacity after 5 cycles. Additionally, its industrial application potential was demonstrated through column adsorption experiments. In conclusion, this study utilized a simple composite method to produce an adsorbent with high adsorption performance and industrial application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torrefaction is an efficient pretreatment technology for large-scale and high-value utilization of biomass fuel. This study aims to enhance the understanding of the thermochemical conversion of torrefied biomass by delineating the role of potassium and torrefaction on primary/secondary charring reactions during pyrolysis of torrefied cellulose. Celluloses with varying potassium loading levels were torrefied at temperatures ranging from 200 to 320 °C and subsequently pyrolyzed at 1000 °C. Two contrasting pyrolysis conditions, i.e., limiting and enhancing transport resistance, were employed to tune the occurrence of secondary reactions, thereby determining the role of torrefaction and potassium on primary and secondary charring reactions. Potassium content, torrefaction severity, and pyrolysis conditions both profoundly affects char formation during pyrolysis of torrefied cellulose, resulting in a wide range of pyrolysis char yields from 1.95 wt% to 64.35 wt%. The structural changes induced by torrefaction, including the depolymerization of the carbohydrate structure and the formation of crosslinking structures, promote the char formation. Potassium enhances the char formation of torrefied cellulose in two ways: i) by catalyzing the transformation of the carbohydrate structure into the crosslinking structure during torrefaction, and ii) by catalyzing the charring reactions of both the carbohydrate and the crosslinking structures during pyrolysis. Raman spectral analysis of the char carbon structure indicates that increased potassium loading level and torrefaction severity enlarge the aromatic system of the char. The findings highlight the potential of optimizing biomass pyrolysis through controlled torrefaction and potassium, paving the way for more efficient biofuel production and high-quality biochar applications. • The role of potassium and torrefaction on char formation during pyrolysis is investigated. • A wide range of pyrolysis char yields from 1.95 to 64.35 wt% is reported. • Torrefied celluloses pretreated at different temperature exhibit different charring behavior. • Potassium can promote char formation by altering structure of torrefied cellulose. • A linear correlation is established between char yield and char carbon structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the development of a highly efficient activated porous acid catalyst using Psidium guajava (guava) leaves as the precursor. The synthesis involved chemical activation with ZnCl 2 and sulfonation with 4-benzenediazonium sulfonate, resulting in the AC-X-PhSO 3 H catalyst, optimized by varying ZnCl 2 ratios (X = 1, 2, 3). Comparative characterization using BET, SEM, XRD, FT-IR, and TGA revealed that AC-2-PhSO 3 H, pyrolyzed at 500 °C, exhibited exceptional efficiency with a maximum surface area of 492.97 m²/g and a sulfur density of 4.23 wt%. Using AC-2-PhSO 3 H as the catalyst, we achieved a remarkable Jatropha curcas oil (JCO) conversion (98.3 ± 0.3 %) to biodiesel under optimized reaction conditions (20:1 methanol to oil molar ratio, 10 wt% catalyst loading, 100 °C, 50 min) and FAME content of 98.04 %, as confirmed by ¹H NMR spectroscopy. The estimated cost of biodiesel production was $0.87 per litre, largely due to the notable reusability of the catalyst (82.9 ± 0.2 % JCO conversion in the 6th run) without additional treatments, indicating significant commercial applicability and enhanced stability. [Display omitted] • Highly efficient Psidium guajava leaves-derived acid catalyst for biodiesel synthesis. • Optimal AC-2-PhSO 3 H catalyst with high porosity and S BET of 492.97 m²/g. • Microwave-assisted transesterification exhibits high JCO conversion (98.3 ± 0.3 %). • Notable reusability over six cycles (82.9 ± 0.2 % JCO conversion) validating high stability. • Life cycle cost analysis estimated biodiesel production cost to be $0.87 L–1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-quality biochars/activated carbons were prepared, optimizing individual parameters of energetically-save microwave pyrolysis (raw material loading - 20 vs. 60 g, nitrogen atmosphere - flow vs. batch, ZnCl 2 activation) from two agricultural wastes - corn cobs, red mombin seeds. Most promising carbons were examined for gaseous xylene adsorption and showed higher sorption capacity (∼250–475 mg xylene · g−1) than commercial carbon (∼214 mg xylene · g−1). ZnCl 2 activation of both raw materials reduces the fixed carbon content and increases volatiles in activated carbon, suggesting microwave pyrolysis of activated feedstock should take 25 min. While biochars are microporous materials with inhomogeneous low-surface mesopore/macropore network, activated carbons are highly microporous-mesoporous. ZnCl 2 activation of both raw materials contributes to formation of extensive high-surface mesopore network (with pore-size < 20 nm) and enlargement of micropore-size, but does not affect the micropore volume. ZnCl 2 activation increases H 2 and decreases CH 4 production. Microwave pyrolysis of larger raw material loading with ZnCl 2 leads to CO 2 increase. Best xylene adsorption capacity (475 mg xylene · g−1) was determined for activated carbon produced from 60 g loading of corn cobs in batch nitrogen atmosphere, showing the largest micropore volume, lowest surface polarity and medium rate of graphitization. Large micropore volume, low surface polarity and high rate of graphitization of carbon are xylene sorption capacity-determining factors. [Display omitted] • Microwave pyrolysis optimization of corn cobs and red mombin seeds was done. • Pyrolysis time shortened from hours to 15 min in flow and 20 min in batch of nitrogen. • Novel highly-microporous activated carbons investigated in xylene adsorption. • Promoted H 2 + CO 2 production by larger biomass loading and ZnCl 2. • Large micropore volume, low surface polarity, high rate of graphitization are key for xylene sorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Plastic Waste (PW) poses significant environmental challenges, necessitating sustainable waste management strategies. Thermochemical conversion for biochar production emerges as a promising solution. This review comprehensively examines thermochemical conversion methods for producing high-performance biochar from MSW and PW feedstocks, discussing fundamental processes like pyrolysis and gasification with emphasis on temperature, pressure, and residence time. Recent advancements in thermochemical technologies are highlighted, alongside discussions on feedstock characteristics, challenges, and applications spanning nanotechnology, agriculture, and other sectors, integrating environmental and economic assessments. The review identifies technological barriers, research gaps, and future directions in thermochemical conversion, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration to advance sustainable waste management practices. Moreover, the study underscores a research gap in utilizing co-pyrolysis products from MSW and PW, noting biochar's enhanced properties—increased surface area, carbon retention, and diverse functional groups—potentially enhancing quality across diverse applications. This highlights a novel area warranting further research and innovation to fully exploit MSW-PW derived biochar's potential. In summary, this manuscript consolidates current research, provides fresh insights, and encourages collaborative efforts to tackle environmental challenges through innovative waste management practices. [Display omitted] • Thermochemical conversion mitigates Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and Plastic Waste (PW) environmental challenges effectively. • Review delves into pyrolysis, gasification fundamentals, emphasizing temperature, pressure roles. • Various conversion technologies discussed, showcasing recent advancements, innovations. • Examination of MSW, PW feedstock sources, characteristics, and associated challenges. • Insights on biochar characterization, applications, environmental, economic implications provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of biomass-derived porous carbon in supercapacitors should focus on heteroatom doping and modulation of pore structure. This work presented a technique for synthesizing natural heteroatom co-doped porous carbon by co-pyrolysis coupled with microwave activation of the kapok tree (KT) and peanut bran (PB). PB is a natural heteroatom donor and a precursor of porous carbon. Some S-containing radicals and N-containing functional groups in PB are successfully retained in the biochar, facilitating heteroatom doping in NHDPC. When the mixing ratio of KT and PB is 1:1, the mesoporous volume of NHDPC-5PB can reach 1.81 cm3/g. Relative to the porous carbon NHDPC-0PB synthesized solely through KT pyrolysis, the mesoporous volume of NHDPC-5PB increases by 74.04 %. Moreover, the specific capacitance of NHDPC-5PB at 0.2 A/g attains 346.8 F/g, which is a 36.6 % increase compared to NHDPC-0PB. This study presents a new strategy to prepare natural heteroatom co-doped porous carbon by co-pyrolysis of heteroatom-rich biomass as a heteroatom donor with lignocellulosic biomass. [Display omitted] • Pyrolysis vapors widen pore tunnels and promote metal K etching. • Peanut bran is both a natural heteroatom donor and a porous carbon precursor. • NHDPC-5PB possesses 346.8 F/g at 0.2 A/g and 2807.32 m2/g specific surface area. • NHDPC-5PB shows a specific energy of 8.29 Wh/kg at a specific power of 124.95 W/kg. • Co-pyrolysis improves the retention of O, N, P, and S heteroatoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel catalysts were prepared by modifying biochar (BC) with different metal loading (Fe, Zn) and thermal activation in different atmospheres (CO 2 , H 2 O). The catalysts were further used to upgrade the pyrolysis vapor from pine wood sawdust, aiming to produce high-quality bio-oil. The modified biochar catalyst exhibited strong deoxygenation ability to acids and ketones in bio-oil and effectively converted lignin-derived compounds into aromatic hydrocarbons and phenols. Subsequently, the catalyst (BC-Fe-CO 2) demonstrating the highest yields of phenols and aromatics was selected for condition optimization. Different catalytic temperatures and biomass-to-catalyst ratios were compared to determine the optimal conditions for producing high-quality bio-oil. Phenolics and aromatic hydrocarbons content in the bio-oil reached 70 % at the optimal condition and the selectivity of monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in aromatic hydrocarbons reached 77 %. The properties of the biochar catalysts were characterized using BET, SEM, XRD, and XPS. The superior performance of the modified BC catalysts not only relied on its enhanced surface area and porous structure but also due to active Fe sites. The detail reaction pathways of the bio-oil catalytic upgrading were also proposed. These findings underscore the potential of modified biochar in pyrolysis and catalytic upgrading for bio-oil with improved quality. [Display omitted] • Novel modified biochar was prepared with Fe/Zn loading and CO 2 /H 2 O activation. • Fe-modified biochar, activated in CO 2 , best improves oil to aromatic compounds. • The selectivity of monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons reached 77 % at 923 K. • The reduced Fe3+ and porous structure in the biochar mainly drive the reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrolyzing waste biomass into functionalized biochar is aligned with the concept of the circular economy. The physicochemical properties of biochar are influenced by the type of biomass feedstock and pyrolysis parameters, necessitating significant time, energy, and resources for quantification. This study employed machine learning algorithms to predict the yield, elemental distribution, and degree of aromatization of biochar based on the physical and chemical properties, as well as the pyrolysis conditions of biomass. Support vector machines (SVM), multiple linear regression (MLR), nearest neighbor algorithm (KNN), random forest (RF), gradient boosting regression (GBR), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) were comparatively analyzed. Among these algorithms, the XGB algorithm performed well in predicting biochar production and element distribution (R 2>0.99). Furthermore, PCC and SHAP analyses revealed a strong positive correlation between pyrolysis temperature and the degree of aromatization in biochar. Therefore, selecting the appropriate ML model can aid in predicting the physicochemical properties of biochar from diverse biomass sources without the necessity for complex and energy-intensive pyrolysis experiments. [Display omitted] • Machine learning for predicting the physicochemical properties of biochar. • Good prediction ability of the eXtreme Gradient Boosting. • Determining the significance of traits for various targets. • Strong correlation between pyrolysis temperature and aromaticity of biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin is a promising renewable alternative to fossil fuels for producing carbon materials such as carbon fibers, activated carbons, or carbon black. Despite extensive research, lignin-derived carbon materials show limited graphitization relative to comparable petroleum-derived carbons. Further, lignin-derived carbons show high variation in graphitization and electrical conductivity depending on the source of the lignin. Herein, nine lignins, derived from various feedstocks and isolation procedures, are pyrolyzed to produce biochar at 1100∘C. These lignins have a range of chemical compositions, carbon structures, and particle sizes. As a result, the pyrolysis behavior of these lignins varies, with powdered, clumped powder, and "foam" biochar morphologies resulting from finely powdered lignin. The produced biochars vary widely in both electrical conductivity, from 0.19 to 19 S/cm, and in-plane graphitic crystallite size, from 3.4 to 41.2Å. A significant decrease in electrical conductivity is identified when Na 2 SO 4 is removed from lignin, accompanied by an increase in graphitic crystallite size. Based on this finding, a quadratic relationship between biochar graphitic crystallite aspect ratio and electrical conductivity is proposed that builds on established quasi-percolation models for biochar electrical conductivity. • Electrical conductivity of lignin pyrolyzed at 1100 ∘C varies by a factor of 100. • Na 2 SO 4 in lignin increases the size of graphitic crystallites, decreases conductivity. • High aspect ratio graphitic crystallites are proposed as cause of this behavior. • Lignin-derived biochar carbon structure can be tuned by varying Na 2 SO 4 content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrolysis is one of the thermal conversion pathways to convert biomass into biochar. The characteristic of biochar depends on three parameters, i.e., before pyrolysis (drying methods of biomass), during pyrolysis (temperature), and after pyrolysis (activation agents). Thermal and non-thermal drying methods remarkably affected the psychochemical properties of biomass. Pyrolysis temperature significantly governed the biochar production. Temperature above 500 °C was required to convert biomass okara into biochar. Activation agent determined the pore characteristic of biochar. FT-IR, XRD, TGA-DSC, SEM, Raman, XRF, CHNOS Analyzer, Surface area analysis, and TEM characterizations of material confirmed that implemented the three parameters simultaneously were essential to achieved different properties of biochar that could be used in environmental remediation or energy-oriented field. • Non-thermal drying method generate biomass with higher lignocellulose level which led to higher carbon content of biochar. • Simultaneously varying biomass drying method, pyrolysis temperature, and activating agents provided various biochar character. • Acid activated biochar okara pyrolyzed at 800 °C possessed GO-like structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative pyrolysis could mitigate energy requirement in endothermic pyrolysis, but evolution of pyrolytic products might be impacted in oxidative atomosphere. This was investigated herein at 300–600 °C in a carrier gas of 11 vol% of oxygen with cellulose as a research object for the pyrolysis, as cellulose-derived aliphatic structures are prone to oxidization. The results indicated that O 2 reacted with organics on cellulose/biochar even from 300 °C, decreasing biochar production while enhancing bio-oil formation. Oxidation of the organics on the biochar increased C O/C C ratio but did not increase oxygen content, as formation of the oxygen-containing aliphatic structures and their elimination via cracking took place in parallel, which in overall formed the biochar of higher C/O and C/H ratios, but not necessarily higher thermal stability. The abundance of the thermally unstable aliphatic structures was responsible for this, but it was also the reason for the improved comprehensive combustion characteristic index and combustion kinetics. Additionally, pyrolysis at 600 °C in presence of O 2 formed the biochar with a specific surface area of 426.2 m2/g (mainly micropores), which was significantly higher than that of counterpart in nitrogen (28.9 m2/g). The in-situ IR characterization of the pyrolysis suggested that O 2 favored formation of oxygen-containing species such as -OH, C O of varied forms, *CO 2 , olefinic C C but not aromatic C C. [Display omitted] • Oxidation of biochar occurs from 300 °C in O 2 , forming less biochar but more bio-oil. • Aliphatics from oxidation are thermally unstable, forming biochar of enhanced C/O and C/H. • Aliphatics from oxidation improve combustion kinetics and performance of biochar. • O 2 drastically promotes micropore formation at 600 °C via enhanced cracking. • O 2 facilitates formation of -OH, C O, *CO 2 and olefinic C C but not aromatic C C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation is a comparative study of anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD) of cattle dung (CD) and cooked kitchen waste (CKW) without and with biochar addition under ambient and mesophilic (35 ± 2 °C) temperatures. The novelty of the investigation is that it focuses on the effect of substrate mixing ratio (SMR), biochar addition, and temperature on AcoD. Initially, four sets of biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests were performed simultaneously, considering the same SMR of 100:0,0:100, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50, 40:60, and 30:70 on mass basis without and with biochar (15 g/L) addition. Considerably, a higher rate of methane (CH 4) yield was achieved for the biochar-added and mesophilic digesters. The maximum specific methane yield (SMY) was detected for the SMR 40:60 for all sets of BMP tests, wherein the SMY for the biochar-added digesters under ambient and mesophilic temperatures were 213.29 and 249.98 mLCH 4 /gVS, respectively. Consequently, considering the SMR 40:60, another set of BMP test was performed under ambient temperature by adding varying quantities of biochar: 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 g/L, to identify the most feasible needed amount of biochar to be added for maximum CH 4 generation. The digester containing 15 g/L biochar exhibited 14.23 %, 9.89 %, 3.00 %, and 7.91 % higher cumulative CH 4 yield than the digesters containing 5, 10, 20 and 25 g/L biochar, respectively, confirming that 15 g/L biochar addition in the slurry of SMR 40:60, can be recognised as the most effective SMR for AcoD of CD and CKW. This study reveals that biochar addition improves the AcoD process. [Display omitted] • Substrates mixing ratio significantly affected the anaerobic co-digestion process • Biochar blended with mesophilic digesters resulted in an increased CH 4 yield rate • The highest CH 4 yield was found for cattle dung-kitchen waste mixing ratio of 40:60 • 15 g/L was detected as the best amount of biochar to be blended • A kinetic study using the Gompertz equation validated the experimental findings [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays a significant role in healthcare, yet the pharmaceutical process generates substantial amounts of organic solid waste (OSW) due to the low proportion of active species in medicinal plants. Traditional disposal methods, such as incineration or landfill, pose significant environmental challenges and fail to recycle valuable resources. Consequently, there is an urgent need for sustainable and high-value utilization strategies to address this issue. Recent research indicates that OSW of TCM is an ideal raw material for preparing biochar-based functional materials due to its high cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content. Notably, these biochar-based materials exhibit excellent potential in environmental remediation, bio-imaging, drug delivery, and energy storage. However, systematic reviews on the preparation, modification, and application of biochar derived from the OSWs of TCM are lacking. This review summarizes the research progress in these areas and discusses the prospects and challenges associated with biochar-based functional materials from the OSWs of TCM. It aims to provide insights into the high-value preparation and recycling of biochar-based functional materials from TCM waste. • Highlighting features of biochar-bases materials from OSWs of TCM. • Emerging applications of biochar-based materials from OSWs of TCM were discussed. • An effective method should be explore for preparation of biochar with high feature. • Future research should be done to ameliorate the property of OSWs biochar materials. • A new strategy for the recycle utilization of the OSWs of TCM was provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient conversion of biomass waste into valuable products is a critical challenge in sustainable energy and environmental management. Microwave pyrolysis of hemp stem and corn stover was studied for producing biochar suitable for CO 2 adsorption, catalysts, water treatment, and soil enhancement. The effects of microwave power and absorbent agents on maximum temperature, yields, and biochar properties were investigated. Elevated power (33–120 W/g) reduced yield (42–16 wt%, 38 to 16 wt%) but increased carbon content (67–78 wt%, 65 to 75 wt%), BET surface area (1.05–69.37 m2/g, 0.59–43.18 m2/g) for hemp stem and corn stover respectively. Microwave absorbents like graphite, activated carbon, and water improved heating and biochar quality. Activated carbon notably increased carbon content (76–82 % wt, 71–80 % wt) and surface area (6.59–91.99 m2/g, 9.99–50.51 m2/g) for hemp stem and corn stover respectively. CO 2 adsorption highlighted biochar microstructure with pore sizes averaging around 1 nm for both biomass. These findings demonstrate the potential of microwave-assisted pyrolysis and the use of absorbent agents to produce high-quality biochar for various applications. [Display omitted] • Higher microwave power reduced biochar yield while increasing carbon content. • Activated carbon as a microwave absorbent agent enhanced biochar properties. • Increasing power from 100W/g to 120W/g decreased surface area and pore volume. • CO 2 absorption capacity of biochars increased with activated carbon as microwave absorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gaseous emissions (i.e. Greenhouse gases (CH 4 and N 2 O) and NH 3) were a serious environmental problem during composting. Magnesium salt could effectively reduce NH 3 emission with the principle of struvite crystallization. Biochar, particularly modified biochar, could be served as a new type of adsorbent for gaseous reduction. In this study, Mg-modified biochars were successfully prepared with different magnesium to biochar mass ratios, and then used as additives in pig manure composting. Mg-modified biochars exhibited excellent properties in terms of functional groups, porous structure and composition. Adding Mg-modified biochar improved composting performance, and thus synergistically reduced CH 4 , N 2 O and NH 3 emissions. Especially, Mg-modified biochar prepared with the magnesium to biochar mass ratio of 0.50 (MBC-0.50) achieved the best reduction effects during pig manure composting. Both additive and composting phases could influence the bacterial composition by regulating temperature, pH, electrical conductivity and moisture content. Besides biochar adsorption, NH 3 could be further reduced with the formation of struvite crystallization (MgNH 4 PO 4 ·6H 2 O) by adding Mg-modified biochar. Pristine and modified biochars inhibited the proliferation of denitrifying bacteria (e.g. Pseudoxanthomonas and norank-f-Methylococcaceae) and anaerobe methanogenic bacteria (e.g. Jeotgalibaca and Lactobacillus) to further mitigate N 2 O and CH 4 emissions. Results from this study provided unique insights to the development of Mg-modified biochar additive for mitigating CH 4 , N 2 O and NH 3 emissions during composting. [Display omitted] • Mg/biochar ratio impacted Mg-modified biochar (MBC) structure and adsorptivity. • Adding MBC improved composting performance. • MBC-0.50 achieved the best CH 4 , N 2 O and NH 3 reduction effects during composting. • MBC reduced NH 3 emission with biochar adsorption and struvite crystallization. • Biochar and MBCs inhibited the proliferation of denitrifiers and methanogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biochar modified with polysaccharide has more functional groups and active structures. • Different polysaccharide modifications produce different effects on biochar. • Remediation of pollutants in the environment through multiple mechanisms. • Polysaccharide-modified biochar has promising applications in real-world environments. • Polysaccharide-modified biochar meets the concept of green chemistry. With the rapid development of industry and agriculture, global environmental problems are becoming more and more serious. It is urgent for us to find green solutions to improve the environment. Biochar is a potentially cost-effective carbonaceous resource with a wide range of applications in agriculture and the environment. Modification of pristine biochar can further improve its performance in the target application. Polysaccharides-modified biochar are receiving increasing attention as a promising material for environmental treatment because they can combine the advantages of polysaccharides and biochar. In this paper, the differences and preparation methods of different polysaccharide-modified biochar, as well as the effects and mechanisms of polysaccharide-modified biochar in removing organic and inorganic pollutants from the environment were systematically discussed for the first time by critically analyzing the existing studies. In addition, the recycling capacity and methods of this type of modified biochar, and the current applications and effects in the real environment were also fully summarized and discussed. The future development of polysaccharide-modified biochar should focus on its recycling methods and costs as well as more in-depth exploration of its application in real environments. It is believed that this material can achieve good results in the field of environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biogas yield of cattle manure and green algae was 176 mL/g VS. • RSM and ANN models have been used to study the anaerobic digestion of biochar dose. • Effects of ozonation and ultrasonic pretreatment on culture have been studied. • After adding 150 mg BC to the environment, the biogas yield was 717 mL/g VS. • According to performance indicators, ANN performed relatively better than RSM. This study aimed to optimise and model biogas yields using artificial neural networks (ANN) and response surface method (RSM) of biogas yields after adding different doses of ozonation and ultrasonic pretreated biochar (BC) doses to the co-digestion of cattle manure and green algae substrates, with and without S.Parkle culture in the environment. The results of the RSM-D optimal design indicated that, in the absence of S.Parkle culture in the environment, the optimum ultrasonic pretreated biochar (UPBC) doses were 29.23 mg (for 100 mL digestion volume) and the corresponding optimum biogas yield was 340.50 mL/g volatile solids (VS). In the case of S.Parkle culture in the environment, the optimum ozonation pretreated biochar (OPBC) dose was 55.96 mg and the corresponding optimum biogas yield was 660.40 mL/g VS. ANN and RSM model performances were analyzed using different statistical indicators and ANN result obtain showed absolute percentage error (MAPE) value of 2.1, mean average error (MAE) value of 0.347, standard error of prediction (SEP) value of 0.590, and root-mean-square error (RMSE) value of 0.55, mean squared error (MSE) value of 0.31, the sum of the squared estimate of errors (SSE) value of 4.9 and coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.9999, and RSM result reveals MAPE of 0.0030, MAE value of 30.693, SEP value of 45.57, RMSE of 42.63, MSE value of 1817.6, SSE value of 29,081 and R2 of 0.9612. The model performance indicators and estimation results indicate that the ANN performs relatively better than the RSM in modelling the process. It is recommended that the optimum OPBC and UPBC doses be tested and verified on different substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The sources, preparation, modification, and environmental remediation applications of biochar have been discussed in detail. • The application of biochar activated persulfate for pollutant removal in water and soil has been extensively discussed. • The mechanism of biochar activation of persulfate has been extensively discussed. • DFT calculations are used to explain the mechanism of action of biochar and the microscopic activities of catalytic adsorption processes. Soil and water environmental pollution continues to pose a substantial threat, accounting for approximately 30 % of all global environmental issues. Among the various remediation strategies, biochar, characterized by its exceptional porous structure, a specific surface area ranging from 500 to 1500 m2/g, and a diverse array of functional groups, stands as a highly effective adsorbent and catalytic material. It has been extensively applied in environmental restoration efforts. Notably, in recent years, the technology involving biochar-activated persulfate (PS) has garnered significant attention, accounting for over 20 % of all published research in this field. A detailed discussion was conducted on the preparation methods of biochar, the research progress and mechanism of activating PS to remediate organic pollutants in soil and water by summarizing and refining relevant research. Specifically, the application of Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations in elucidating the interaction mechanisms between biochar and PS has been thoroughly investigated, uncovering the electron transfer process between the functional groups on the biochar surface and PS, thus facilitating the degradation of organic pollutants. Moreover, this article also explores the challenges and future directions of the biochar-activated PS technology in practical applications, aiming to offer new insights and methods for the restoration of soil and water environments. It provides a theoretical foundation for further exploration of its mechanism of action and the optimization of application conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel nitrogen-doped biochar material loaded with S-nZVI was prepared. • Both adsorption and reduction acted on the removal of norfloxacin. • Norfloxacin was degraded by the direct electron transfer and H* pathways. • Nitrogen species and sulfur species were involved in the cycle of iron species. In this study, a nitrogen-doped biochar loaded with sulfidated nanoscale zero- valent iron (S-nZVI@NBC) was synthesized using reed as the precursor to efficiently remove norfloxacin (NOR) from water. S-nZVI@NBC could completely remove NOR within 180 min at a removal rate of 0.026 min−1, exceeding the performance of materials without sulfur or nitrogen species. Density functional theory calculation showed that S-nZVI@NBC had strong NOR adsorption performance (−2.075 eV) and better electron transfer capacity (0.449 e). The nitrogen and sulfur species in S-nZVI@NBC promote the degradation of NOR by H* (dominant, 97.4 %) and direct electron transfer (DET) (synergistic, 2.6 %) pathways. In addition, XPS analysis further showed that sulfur species promoted iron cycling with the assistance of nitrogen species in the reaction, making S-nZVI@NBC had better removal performance to pollutants and practical application potential. The removal efficiency of NOR could still be maintained at about 60 % after 6 cycles, which might benefit from the dual protection of nitrogen-doped carbon network and sulfur shell. Piperazine ring cleavage and defluorination were the main ways of the NOR degradation by S-nZVI@NBC, thus reducing the biotoxicity of NOR. This study clarified the reaction mechanism of S-nZVI and nitrogen species to promote the degradation of pollutants by heterogeneous materials, thereby providing a theoretical foundation for the synthesis and application of the integrated adsorption/degradation materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Biochar derived from low-lignin biomass is highly susceptible to oxidation. • Aged low-lignin biochar releases significant DOM, decreasing soil As stability. • Oxygen-functional groups on aged biochar enhance Pb, Zn, and Cu stability. • Cu stability with biochar aging requires further research. Understanding biochar aging is a critical factor in predicting its long-term effects when added to soil. This study explores the complex links between lignin content in biochar feedstock and biochar stability during accelerated aging, including its influence on heavy metal mobility in soil. In this study, nine types of biochar based on fir (F), pine (P), and oak (O) sawdust were produced at 400 °C, and lignin was extracted from them using ammonia after 0, 3, and 7 days (named as 0FB, 3FB, 7FB, 0PB, 3PB, 7PB, 0OB, 3OB, and 7OB). Subsequently, each biochar was subjected to 25 cycles of wet-dry (WD) and freeze–thaw (FT) aging. The aged low-lignin biochars (7FB, 7 PB, and 7OB) released more dissolved organic matter (DOM) and contained more oxygen-containing surface groups on their surfaces than the high-lignin biochars (0FB, 0PB, and 0OB). The low-lignin biochars with high DOM leaching released 37–85 % more anionic arsenic (As) from biochar-amended soil after 25 cycles of aging than the high-lignin biochars. The stabilities of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) were increased due to strong binding to surface functional groups on the low-lignin biochar. The acid-soluble fractions of Pb, Zn, and Cu were converted to organic-bound fractions as biochar aging progressed, with the degree of transformation being inversely proportional to the lignin content of biochar. This research highlights the crucial role of lignin in shaping biochar stability, and reveals how biochar stability impacts soil heavy metals speciation, opening new avenues for effective biochar-based environmental solutions and the promotion of soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Biochar-assisted AnMBR was established to treat ammonia-rich swine wastewater. • Adding biochar promoted CH 4 yield by 9.1–33.3 % under ammonia contents of 3–6 g/L. • Biochar enriched Syntrophomonas and Methanosarcina under ammonia stress. • Biochar-EPS-microbes matrix was potentially formed to enhance CH 4 production. • Biochar boosted EET-based methanogenesis under high ammonia stress. Anaerobic Membrane Bioreactor (AnMBR) is regarded as an advanced technology for the anaerobic digestion (AD) of swine wastewater. However, the high ammonia level in swine wastewater is a crucial issue to inhibit methane production. This study aimed to establish a biochar-assisted AnMBR (BC) to mitigate ammonia inhibition during AD of swine wastewater. As the gradual ammonia loading rate (ALR) increased from 3.0 g/L to 6.0 g/L, BC maintained methane yields ranging from 74.9 % to 48.1 %, which were 9.1 % to 33.3 % higher than those of a regular AnMBR (CT). Moreover, the COD removal efficiency steadily surpassed 80 %. Although the increase in ALR had negative effects on both BC and CT, the presence of biochar enhanced the methanogenic activity of bulk sludge, specifically accelerating processes involved in syntrophic acetate oxidation and CO 2 -reducing methanogenesis under high ALR conditions. Integrated characterizations using PARAFAC-based EPS analysis, INT-ETS, and WO 3 probe-based extracellular electron transfer (EET) activities indicated that biochar stimulated the secretion of humic-like and aromatic protein-like compounds in the TB-EPS, which likely established a redox-active matrix with biochar between VFA oxidation bacteria and CO 2 -reducing methanogens to facilitate EET. This potentially made the syntrophic VFA oxidation with favorably thermodynamic kinetics under high ammonia stress. Furthermore, the analysis of microbial community coupling prediction of functional genes associated with methanogenic pathways revealed that as ALR increased, the presence of biochar re-shaped the microbial communities by enriching electro-active Syntrophomonas and Methanosarcina / Methanospirillum , which mainly triggering EET-based syntrophic methanogenesis by accelerating the intracellular enzymatic transformation from Formylmethanofuran to 5,10-Methylenetetrahydromethanopterin process. We expect the major findings of this study provide new insights to understand the mechanisms of biochar alleviating ammonia inhibition during long-term operation of AnMBR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • B-SSBC is used to activate peroxymonosulfate and degrade tetracycline in urine. • HCO 3 −/CO 3 2− in urine contributes to the degradation of tetracycline. • DFT calculations reveal the mechanism of tetracycline degradation in urine. • The B-SSBC/PDS system removed up to 77.35 % of tetracycline in urine at pH = 7. In this work, we reveal the influencing factors and mechanisms of tetracycline removal by peroxydisulfate activated with boron-modified sewage sludge biochar in urine. Advanced characterization techniques showed that the introduced BCO 2 and BC 2 O were the main activation sites for peroxydisulfate, which maintained a high removal rate of tetracycline in synthetic and actual urine (86.48% and 77.35%). HCO 3 −/CO 3 2− and some organic matter in the urine contributed to the degradation of the tetracycline. Theoretical calculations showed that CO 3 2− in urine could be efficiently adsorbed by the introduced B atoms and converted to CO 3 ·− by peroxydisulfate to assist the degradation of tetracycline, which was attributed to the special electronic structure of the B atoms as well as the strong electron-enrichment ability of the neighboring O atoms. The potential toxicity of tetracycline and its degradation intermediates was further explored, revealing a significant reduction in toxicity during boron-modified sewage sludge biochar/ peroxydisulfate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • s-ZVI-coupled Myriophyllum aquaticum- derived biochar favors C storage more than I.H. • Biochar nature or feedstock may control C trap and N removal gains from Fe-C coupling. • Biochars trigger C dynamics depending on trade-offs between priming and increased MBC. • Enhanced iron gate contributes to synergistic C sequestration and C sink augmentation. • β -glucosidase activity and Fe-OC increases jointly drive C cumulation in Fe-C ditches. Carbon dioxide (CO 2) is a more powerful greenhouse gas due to its enhanced instantaneous radiative forcing. Since agricultural ecological ditches (eco-ditches) controlling agricultural non-point source pollution are potential CO 2 hotspots, carbon capture technologies must be deployed immediately to sequester carbon and combat climate change. Zero-waste biochar, a negative-carbon technology, remains contentious regarding C sequestration. Iron (Fe) enhances long-term organic carbon (OC) preservation, but the cascading effects of Fe-biochar interactions on the promotion of C accumulation are unclear in eco-ditches. In this paper, we fill these research gaps and employ sponge iron (s-ZVI) and biochar coupling (Fe-C) to enhance the iron gate C protection in eco-ditches. The results reveal that Myriophyllum aquaticum(M.A.) -derived biochar prepared by low-temperature pyrolysis (Biochar_M.A.) enjoys the highest FI, the lowest SUVA254 and SUVA280 and moderate dissolution stability. The coupling of s-ZVI and environmentally compatible Biochar_M.A. achieve a triple benefit situation of C sequestration, C sink, and pollutant removal. Overall carbon gain is jointly determined by abiotic controls and biotic controls. The carbon burial effects of biochar-amended eco-ditches are mainly controlled by the trade-offs between Fe-bound OC mineralization via the biochar-induced prime effect and preservation of OC derived from microbial biomass. The unique Fe-C boosts the rusty sink and yields a negative priming as a result of the dominance of Fe-OC. The upregulated β -glucosidase activity and new-formed Fe-OC indirectly and directly contribute to overall C gain in Fe-C-filled eco-ditches, respectively. These findings provide novel insights into the coupled biotic-abiotic contribution mechanisms underlying the iron gate and reverse enzyme latch phenomenon and advance more robust and prospective theoretical knowledge of C dynamics that are not restricted to eco-ditches, soil, constructed wetlands C storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • KOH introduced carbonyl groups and urea had a deoxygenation effect for the treatment of biochar. • The BK-N-8 sample exhibited a high initial conversion rate and excellent durability. • The weaker interaction between hydrated cations endowed BK-N-8 with favorable durability in catalytic capacity. • Thermodynamics and kinetics calculations clearly elucidated the effects of surface functional groups. • Key roles of epoxy and pyridinic groups for the steady conversion of SO 2 were revealed. The catalytic oxidation of SO 2 (COS) by dissolved oxygen in aqueous solution allows to recycle sulfate salt/sulfuric acid from the SO 2 -containing flue gas, and high-performance catalysts are desired for an efficient COS process. In this study, the chestnut leaves-derived biochars treated by the co-pyrolysis process with KOH/urea exhibited a favorable capability to catalyze the oxidation of SO 2 in aqueous solution. The BK-N-8 biochar catalyst was the optimal one due to its moderate nitrogen content and appropriate surface functional groups. It exhibited a fast initial conversion rate from SO 2 to SO 4 2− (6.50 μmol g−1 s−1), and an excellent cycling durability for the COS process. The material showed a catalytic activity that surpassed all the reported carbonaceous materials. The surface functionalities were revealed to be the decisive factor for the conversion rate and durability of catalytic capacity. The superiority of the BK-N-8 with pyridinic N-doped aromatic cluster (AC) was further investigated via density-functional-theory calculations. The epoxy groups from O 2 dissociation at the edge sites of ACs played a pivotal role for COS process onto biochars. This study provides insightful information for an in-depth understanding of the mechanism of COS process catalyzed by carbonaceous materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mutual element doped FeS 2 /Biochar was synthesized by wet-mechanochemical method. • FeS 2 /Biochar showed superior Fenton catalytic performance with negligible Fe release. • Newly formed Fe-C site contributed to the H 2 O 2 adsorption and barrierless dissociation. • Functional group, Fe-C and C-S-C bonds by milling expedited Fe3+/Fe2+ redox-cycle. • Dominant radicals (•OH, •O 2 –, •SO 4 -) and auxiliary 1O 2 both existed. FeS 2 -biochar composites have been considered as promising heterogeneous Fenton materials for pollutants removal. However, the chemical synthesis of element-doped FeS 2 -biochar composite with superior performance and the comprehensive investigation for its underlying multiple synergistic mechanism remain a difficult endeavor. Herein, a novel FeS 2 /Biochar nanocomposite with mutual element doping was firstly synthesized by facile wet-mechanochemical method using iron, sulfur and bamboo-biochar for efficient organic pollutant (sulfamonomethoxine, SMM) removal. Experiment and DFT calculation results revealed that multiple synergistic effect between FeS 2 and biochar derived from newly formed Fe-C and C-S-C bonds induced the abundant reactive oxygen species (ROS) and excellent electron transfer capacity. Fe-C sites facilitated the H 2 O 2 adsorption and populated O-O bond in H 2 O 2 for its barrierless dissociation into •OH via forming bridging C-Fe-O-O-Fe bond. Oxygen vacancy, C-S-C and Fe-C bonds, persistent free radicals (PFRs) accelerated the generation and transformation of ROS, which resulted in dominating free radical (•OH, •O 2 – , •SO 4 -) and auxiliary non-radical (1O 2) pathway. Meanwhile, Fe3+/Fe2+ redox-cycle was expedited by electron donor/shuttle (S 2 2-, BC, •O 2 –, C-S-C and Fe-C bonds). All these specialties contributed to the superior performance of FeS 2 /Biochar Fenton system for SMM removal at wide pH range (3–11) with negligible Fe release. Completely SMM (50 mg/L) removal was achieved within 20 min for 8 successive reuses. This work emphasized the concept of building mutual element doping on molecular level in enhancing FeS 2 -Biochar synergy towards efficient environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We quantified biochar-C in biochar-soil mixtures from six industrial biochars and four cultivated soils. • PyC was mainly emitted as CO 2 between 410 and 610 °C, during the oxidation stage of the Rock-Eval® analysis. • The Rock-Eval® thermal method was a good tool for the quantification of biochar-C enrichment in agricultural soils. • A precise char-C quantification with the Rock-Eval® method requires the use of a reference soil sample. • When no reference soil sample is available, the Rock-Eval® method allows quantification of thermo-resistant organic C. Pyrogenic carbon (PyC) constitutes an important pool of soil organic carbon and may remain in soil over millennia. Its accurate quantification in soil is necessary to monitor the evolution of soil carbon stocks and fluxes. This study tested new direct approaches to quantify PyC enrichment in soil, using three protocols based on the Rock-Eval® thermal method. Six industrial biochars and four cultivated soils were mixed at five different biochar/soil ratios from 0.05 % to 1 % (w/w). Biochar-C emissions could be identified in the CO 2 signal from the oxidation stage (CO 2 oxi) between 410 °C and 610 °C, independently from carbon and carbonate contents from the original unamended soil. Based on this signal and using a reference sample, the protocol 3 allowed for a good estimation of the PyC enrichment relatively to the reference sample. This protocol is thus well adapted to monitor biochar addition in agricultural soils. However, the use of a reference sample, chosen as the sample with the lowest value of thermo-resistant organic carbon (Corg TR), may be tricky for heterogeneous surface areas and soil profiles. In the latter context, both protocols 1 and 2 are alternative methods to quantify Corg TR from biochar and soil without the need of a reference sample, although less accurate than protocol 3. Protocol 2, based on a more precise identification of the biochar-derived peak of CO 2 oxi, resulted in more accurate values than protocol 1. However, the use of protocol 2 is suitable when the biochar-derived peak is easily distinguishable from the peaks derived from both thermo-resistant SOM and PyC present in the original unamended soil. In conclusion, the Rock-Eval® thermal method turns out to be a good tool to quantify biochar-C in cultivated soil and is fully adapted in field experiments – in which, the initial content in biochar is controlled – aiming to decipher the potential benefits of biochar on soil functioning and related ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear energy is playing an increasingly important role on the earth, but the nuclear plants leaves a legacy of radioactive waste pollution, especially uranium-containing pollution. Straw biochar with wide sources, large output, low cost, and easy availability, has emerged as a promising material for uranium extraction from radioactive wastewater, but the natural biomass with suboptimal structure and low content of functional groups limits the efficiency. In this work, microbial etch was first came up to regulate the biochar's structure and function. The surface of the biochar becomes rougher and more microporous, and the mineral contents (Ca, P) indirectly increased by microbial etch. The biochar was modified by calcium phosphate and exhibited a remarkable uranium extraction capacity of 590.8 mg g−1 (fitted value). This work provides a cost-effective and sustainable method for preparing functionalized biochar via microbial etch, which has potential for application to uranium extraction from radioactive wastewater. [Display omitted] • Microbial etch process constructed a large amount of Ca sites in the cotton straw. • Microbial etch facilitated the formation of calcium phosphate on the hydrothermal biochar. • The adsorption capacity of CCS-P for U(VI) was 590.8 mg g−1. • Microbial etch is a novel method for the production of high-performance uranium adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread and inevitable use of plastic has led to prospective ecological problems through Bisphenol A (BPA), a synthetic chemical in plastic manufacturing. The present study addresses a unique methodology for eliminating BPA using the assistance of Pseudomonas putida. In the present work, biomass was torrefied to generate biochar with highly porous networks that could accommodate the bacterial species for effective colonization and multiplication. The designed biochar-bacterial globules demonstrated the ability to effectively remove BPA (96.88%) at a concentration of up to 2 g/L. The biochar-bacterial globules could effectively adsorb BPA at a low concentration of 20 mg/L. The alteration in pH did not impact the globule's performance, providing additional support for the practical utilization of these globules in polluted water bodies. In addition, the biochar-bacterial globules exhibited superior effectiveness in degradation compared to the standard levels, particularly in saline conditions. The simplicity and effectiveness of the approach make it promising for real-world implementation in addressing ecological problems associated with BPA contamination. [Display omitted] • The study addresses degradation and removal of Bisphenol A in natural water bodies. • Bacterial-biochar globules are sensitive to removal even upto 20 mg/L of BPA. • The fabricated globules are made for one-time use with easy disposal. • A possible mechanism for the enhanced degradation of BPA has been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuCoFe-LDO/BCD was successfully synthesized from CuCoFe-LDH and biochar derived from durian shell (BCD). Ciprofloxacin (CFX) degraded more than 95% mainly by O 2 •− and 1O 2 in CuCoFe-LDO/BCD(2/1)/PMS system within 10 min with a rate constant of 0.255 min−1, which was 14.35 and 2.66 times higher than those in BCD/PMS and CuCoFe-LDO/PMS systems, respectively. The catalytic system exhibited good performance over a wide pH range (3–9) and high degradation efficiency of other antibiotics. Built-in electric field (BIEF) driven by large difference in the work function/Fermi level ratio between CuCoFe-LDO and BCD accelerated continuous electron transfer from CuCoFe-LDO to BCD to result in two different microenvironments with opposite charges at the interface, which enhanced PMS adsorption and activation via different directions. As a non-radical, 1O 2 was mainly generated via PMS activation by C=O in BCD. The presence of C=O in BCD resulted in an increase in atomic charge of C in C=O and redistributed the charge density of other C atoms. As a result, strong adsorption of PMS at C atom in C=O and other C with a high positive charge was favorable for 1O 2 generation, whereas an enhanced adsorption of PMS at negatively charged C accounted for the generation of •OH and SO 4 •−. After adsorption, electrons in C of BCD became deficient and were fulfilled with those transferred from CuCoFe-LDO driven by BIEF, which ensured the high catalytic activity of CuCoFe-LDO/BCD. O 2 •−, on the other hand, was generated via several pathways that involved in the transformation of •OH and SO 4 •− originated from PMS activation by the transition of metal species in CuCoFe-LDO and negatively charged C in BCD. This study proposed a new idea of fabricating a low-cost metal-LDH and biomass-derived catalyst with a strong synergistic effect induced by BIEF for enhancing PMS activation and antibiotic degradation. [Display omitted] • Durian peel-derived biochar enhances CFX degradation in CuCoFe-LDO/BCD/PMS by 1.48 times. • The role of C=O in BCD for PMS activation and 1O 2 generation is confirmed by DFT calculations. • A new pathway for 1O 2 generation via PMS activation by C=O is proposed. • Built-in electric field between CuCoFe-LDO and BCD accelerates electron transfer and enhances PMS activation. • CFX degradation is contributed mainly by both radical (O 2 •−) and non-radical (1O 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil sands process affected water (OSPW) is produced during bitumen extraction and typically contains high concentrations of trace metals. Constructed wetlands have emerged as a cost effective and green technology for the treatment of metals in wastewaters. Whether the addition of amendments to constructed wetlands can improve metal removal efficiency is unknown. We investigated the synergistic effects of carbon based amendments and wetland plant species in removal of arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, nickel, and selenium from OSPW. Three native wetland species (Carex aquatilis , Juncus balticus , Scirpus validus) and two amendments (canola straw biochar, nano humus) were investigated in constructed wetland mesocosms over 60 days. Amendment effect on metal removal efficiency was not significant, while plant species effect was. Phytoremediation resulted in removal efficiencies of 78.61–96.31 % for arsenic, cadmium, and cobalt. Carex aquatilis had the highest removal efficiencies for all metals. Amendments alone performed well in removing some metals and were comparable to phytoremediation for cadmium, cobalt, copper, and nickel. Metals were primarily distributed in roots with negligible translocation to shoots. Our work provides insights into the role of plants and amendments during metal remediation and their complex interactions in constructed treatment wetlands. [Display omitted] • Carbon based amendments did not improve phytoremediation. • All native plant species efficiently removed arsenic, cadmium and cobalt from OSPW. • Carex aquatilis had highest removal efficiency for all seven metals. • Amendments alone were efficient for removal of cadmium, cobalt, copper, nickel. • Longer than 60 days is required to reduce metal concentrations to below guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is currently garnering interest as an alternative to commercial fertilizer and as a tool to counteract global warming. However, its use is increasingly drawing attention, particularly concerning the fine dust that can be developed during its manufacture, transport, and use. This work aimed to assess the toxicity of fine particulate Biochar (

[Display omitted] • An integrated HTC–PY technique was implemented to valorizes CS and YW. • HTC improved carbon content, deoxygenation, and higher heating value. • CSH and YWH hydrochars' co–pyrolysis modeled via hybrid RSM–ANN. • The pyrolysis of blends reduced the average activation energy. • Pyrolysis of hydrochars enriched bio–oil with hydrocarbons and phenols. Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) presents a promising method for converting carbonaceous waste into renewable fuels, facilitating energy recovery. This study focuses on the HTC pretreatment of microalgae (Chlorella sorokiniana) and yard waste, examining their physicochemical structural changes, component migration, and potential for valorization via integrated HTC and pyrolysis processes. HTC notably enhances the carbon content while reducing oxygen and nitrogen levels in these feedstocks, producing a clean solid fuel with high energy density. The study investigates the pyrolytic behavior of hydrochars and their blends using different analytical techniques, kinetic modeling, and fixed–bed reactor experiments. The blends with 90% and 70% of microalgae hydrochar (CSH) exhibited the most significant synergistic effects during co–pyrolysis, evident in its devolatilization behaviors and reduced activation energies. Integrating artificial neural networks and response surface methodology models facilitated optimization of pyrolysis parameters and accurate prediction of bio–oil, biochar, and gas yields. The analytical techniques enabled characterization of pyrolysis products, revealing notable changes in bio–oil and biochar compositions, suggesting potential enhancements. The study comprehensively evaluates the HTC–pyrolysis approach's potential for converting microalgae and lignocellulosic biomass into eco–friendly biofuels for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A system containing Co-ZIF reinforced kraft lignin biochar catalyst was designed. • Co@NPC-KLB-A showed perfect catalytic activities for vanillin hydrodeoxygenation. • H-donner solvent was used for vanillin hydrodeoxygenation instead of external H 2. • Theoretical calculations further confirmed the active sites of the catalysts. • Co@NPC-KLB-A catalyst showed excellent stability after five recycling runs. Large amount of lignin was produced annually as a byproduct in papermaking and pulping processes, the challenges in disposal methods had posed serious obstacles for advanced carbon materials and value-added chemicals. This study involved the preparation of kraft lignin (KL) loaded metal–organic framework (ZIF-67) material derived Co nanoparticles carbon using various methods to produce kraft lignin biochar-based carbon materials (Co@NPC-KLB). The novel and advanced carbon materials was utilized for lignin derived bio-oil hydrodeoxygenation to generate high value fuels and chemicals. It could achieve nearly 100 % vanillin (VAN) conversion and 88.49 % 2-methoxy-4-methylphenol (MMP) without the extra hydrogen at 240 °C in ethanol. The results demonstrated that highly active and stable Co nanoparticles, large specific surface area, smaller nano Co nanoparticles, strong metal-support interaction and rich Lewis acid sites on the surface of biochar support exhibited a positive promoting effect on VAN hydrodeoxygenation to generate MMP. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) also confirmed that synergistic effect of Co nanoparticles and kraft lignin biochar promoted a high adsorption energy of VAN on the surface of kraft lignin biochar, enhanced the catalytic ability of the hydrodeoxygenation process. This study provided a novel approach for utilizing kraft lignin in preparation functional catalysts, opening up new opportunities for designing efficient biochar-based materials for advanced carbon materials and high-value chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]