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Biochar, a solid material derived from a thermochemical process, has received significant attention due to its usefulness in various sectors. Previous studies have been conducted to improve the properties and quality of this material by altering the thermochemical processes, treating the feedstock, hybridizing the feedstock, and so forth, but little has been done on the effect of varying the reactor's configuration. This research aims to study the effect of varying the stainless‐steel‐based combustion compartment volume of a biomass‐fueled top‐lit updraft gasifier on the groundnut shell biochar. The biochar yields for reactors ranged from 34.9% to 51.2%. The sample produced in the smallest combustion compartment volume showed the highest carbon content, according to energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. Potassium, another major element, decreased as the combustion compartment was reduced. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the biochar samples produced had an irregular shape and rough surfaces, and reducing the combustion compartment volume resulted in larger particles on the surface. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis showed similarities and differences in peaks observed for all the samples. The biochar samples produced can find applications in wastewater treatment, energy conversion and storage, and soil amendment, and the findings contribute to the design and optimization of biomass‐based gasifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, biochars with different structures were prepared through HNO3 oxidation and secondary pyrolysis to study the relationship between the structure of biochar and its selectivity for the adsorption of light and heavy aromatics in bio‐oil. The results showed that the adsorption rates of biochar with different structures ranged from 2.90 to 4.00 g bio‐oil per g biochar. The influence of pore structure was dominant, followed by the influence of O‐containing functional groups and the degree of graphitization. The higher the adsorption capacity of biochar for bio‐oil, the smaller the concentrations of the light aromatic model compounds in the absorbed bio‐oil (ABO). Among the five light aromatics, biochar has the best adsorption selectivity for dihydroxybiphenyl and the worst for eugenol and propyl phenol. This is attributed to the diphenyl ring structure of dihydroxybiphenyl, which makes it more susceptible to adsorption, and other light model compounds only have one benzene ring. In summary, biochar demonstrates better adsorption selectivity for heavy aromatics than light aromatics. The more developed the pore structure is, the more enriched O‐containing functional groups are, and the higher the graphitization degree of biochar is, the better the selective adsorption of aromatic compounds in bio‐oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investment potential for biochar production from low‐value forest biomass in the western USA is over USD 20 billion at current carbon prices. This investment could generate approximately 70 million carbon credits annual – roughly the same number currently generated globally by all forestry and agricultural carbon projects. Biochar production that utilizes woody biomass specifically from wildfire fuel thinning projects as a feedstock can contribute financially to much‐needed fuel thinning projects. Each coupled biochar and carbon credit production system has positive returns in certain scenarios. Light upgrades to existing biopower facilities have the highest returns, with internal rates of return generally between 10–30%. Mobile biochar production often had the lowest returns. However, land managers can subsidize mobile biochar production up to USD 150–300 per tonne of biochar and still save money in comparison with pile‐burning low‐value biomass while also generating approximately one carbon credit for every two bone‐dry tonnes of low‐value biomass turned to biochar. The critical barrier to industry growth is the lack of transparent biomass supply chains that enable long‐term contracting for feedstock, production schedules, and investment. Moving forward, there are three potential pathways for the biochar industry to scale and utilize biomass from forest management and fuel thinning projects. Either (1) the carbon market will need to sustain high carbon prices, (2) a subsidy or other mechanism will need to decrease the cost of feedstock biomass, or (3) production will need to take advantage of economies of scale to bring down biochar prices while increasing production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is amongst a growing suite of approaches developed to address the climate crisis by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere; yet public awareness of biochar is low. In this situation, mass-media reporting plays an important role in making an issue public and in creating expectations about its risks and benefits. In British broadsheet newspapers, a promissory, future-oriented discourse on biochar has emerged that is rhetorically configured through, for example, evaluative adjectives, verbs, hyperbole, and allusions to literary and cultural symbols that confer a sense of mystique. Biochar is promoted as an almost magical fix, based on its ability to soak up and store carbon, improve soil health, increase crops yields, and reduce pollutants. Conversely, some of the possible negative aspects of biochar are couched in the form of sarcasm and parody, while others are made invisible. This sets biochar up as a moral good that the public ought to accept, rather than opening up a public debate about its risks and benefits. Engaging in a fine-grained rhetorical analysis of the way promises about biochar are constructed expands the methodological and empirical repertoire of the sociology of expectations and, in future, can be applied to the analysis of other emerging climate change technologies, especially those relating to carbon removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high irrigation water demand of coconut trees in semiarid regions makes rational use crucial for crop sustainability. Additionally, it produces residues that could improve the soil water holding capacity. This research aimed to evaluate the application of coconut shell biochar to an irrigated dwarf green coconut palm orchard. The study was carried out from January 2019 to December 2021 at Campo Experimental do Curu, Paraipaba, Brazil, belonging to Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical. The experiment consisted of a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replications and included the application of 0, 5, 10, 20, or 40 g of biochar per kg of soil, equivalent to 0.0 kg, 0.5 kg, 1.0 kg, 2.0 kg or 4.0 kg of biochar per plant, respectively. The following biometric variables were evaluated: number of leaves per plant (NL), plant height (PH), number of leaflets per leaf (LFT), canopy diameter (CD) and fruit production: number of bunches per plant (NB), number of fruits per plant (NF), volume of coconut water per fruit (CWF) and total soluble solids (TSS) (°Brix), as well as the daily soil moisture average. The results showed beneficial effects on the number of leaves per plant, fruits per plant, soil moisture and irrigation water productivity in terms of liters per fruit, liters per coconut water and fruits per cubic meter (m3) applied with ideal biochar doses estimated to be 1.40 kg, 1.72 kg, 1.79 kg, 1.56 kg, 1.48 and 1.68 kg of biochar per plant, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bacillus sp.+Fe-modified BC was effective to improve wheat growth. • Bacillus sp.+Fe-modified BC effectively improved enzymatic activity in wheat plants. • Bacillus sp.+Fe-modified BC neutralized soil pH and immobilized Pb translocation. • Microbes+Fe-modified BC reduced Pb bioaccumulation and uptake factors in plants. Soil contamination with heavy metals (HMs) has become a severe environmental problem for crop production. The efficacy of bacillus strain (N18) and Fe-modified biochar (FeB2%) on plant growth, lead (Pb) bioaccumulation and oxidative stress in wheat plants was studied under Pb contaminated soil. Lead stress caused significant reduction in plant growth, chlorophyll contents, antioxidant enzymes activity and Pb tolerance index. The Bacillus strain inoculated seeds stimulated the plant growth, chlorophyll content, antioxidative enzymatic activity with reduced oxidative stress and Pb bioavailability in soil, Pb biological accumulation, translocation and uptake factor in plants. The FeB2% treatment had shown prominently positive results relative to N18 inoculated treatment. Whereas, combined application of N18 and FeB2% depicted maximum significant improvement in root length (37, 36 and 30%), shoot length (45 %, 46 % and 47 %), total chlorophyll (43 %, 51 % and 48 %), carotenoid contents (36 %, 49 % and 48 %) and antioxidative enzymes activities such as; superoxide dismutase (19 %, 35 % and 40 %), peroxidase (29 %, 18 % and 20 %), catalase (19 %, 35 % and 40 %) and ascorbate peroxidase (23 %, 23 % and 13 %) in Pb-0, 400 and 600 mg kg-1 soil, respectively. Reduction in malondialdehyde content (MDA) (52 %, 61 % and 56 %), Pb biological accumulation (48 %, 41 % and 37 %), soil-root translocation factor (11 %, 15 % and 9 %), root-shoot translocation factor (42 %, 36 % and 35 %) and uptake factor (19 %, 22 % and 17 %) in wheat plants observed with combined N18+ FeB2% application as compared to control treatments in Pb-0, 400 and 600 mg kg-1 soil, respectively. The study suggested that combined application of N18+ FeB2% treatment prominently increased plant health with reduction in Pb bio-availability compared to sole application of N18 strain and FeB2% treatment under (Pb) contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agro-waste derived valuable products are prime interest for effective management of toxic heavy metals (THMs). The present study investigated the efficacy of biochars (BCs) on immobilization of THMs (Cr, Zn, Pb, Cu, Ni and Cd), bioaccumulation and health risk. Agro-wastes derived BCs including wheat straw biochar (WSB), orange peel biochar (OPB), rice husk biochar (RHB) and their composite biochar (CB) were applied in industrial contaminated soil (ICS) at 1% and 3% amendments rates. All the BCs significantly decreased the bioavailable THMs and significantly (p < 0.001) reduced bioaccumulation at 3% application with highest efficiency for CB followed by OPB, WSB and RHB as compared to control treatment. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF), concentration index (CI) and ecological risk were decreased with all BCs. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) of all THMs were <1, except Cd, while carcer risk (CR) and total cancer risk index (TCRI) were decreased through all BCs. The overall results depicted that CB at 3% application rate showed higher efficacy to reduce significantly (p < 0.001) the THMs uptake and reduced health risk. Hence, the present study suggests that the composite of BCs prepared from agro-wastes is eco-friendly amendment to reduce THMs in ICS and minimize its subsequent uptake in vegetables. Novelty statement: The present study has a scientific research scope, based on reduction of bioavailability and bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals (THMs) by the addition of biochars derived from agro-wastes and their composite biochar (CB), thereby decreasing the potential health risk. Limited study has been conducted, especially on the impact of CB in THMs-contaminated soil. This study could fill the scientific research gap and provides useful information for mitigation of THMs present in contaminated soil, which could be followed by the Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Agriculture and farmers in degraded lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is recognized for its potential in mitigating climate change, especially through carbon sequestration and soil improvement. To this end, it is important to use all co-products from pyrolysis in a sustainable and economically viable way. In this study, the conversion of sugarcane bagasse at varying pyrolysis temperatures was investigated using 1H NMR spectroscopy and Chenomx for liquid fraction analysis. The yield of biochar decreased significantly from 45.3 to 3.5% with a temperature increase of 300 to 1000 °C. The morphological analysis revealed that biochar produced at lower temperatures (300 °C and 400 °C) showed tubular and spongy structures, whereas at higher temperatures (600 °C and 800 °C), the structures morphed into holes and thinned further, ultimately degrading further at 1000 °C. All samples of biochar showed characteristics promising for soil improvement and carbon sequestration (O/C < 0.4). The analysis of liquid fractions revealed that biomethanol reached its highest concentration of 19.28 mM at 800 °C, which coincided with the highest production of acetic and lactic acids. Additionally, the highest concentration of acetone was observed at 600 °C. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing pyrolysis conditions for enhanced yields of biochar and platform compounds, as well as the potential of the NMR and Chenomx in bioenergy research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major global consumption of coffee has led to the generation of a substantial amount of spent coffee grounds (SCG), which contribute to environmental burdens. Research on using SCG for asphalt modification is limited. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of using biochar from spent coffee grounds (SBC) produced through low-oxygen pyrolysis as a modifier for asphalt, to enhance high-temperature performance and aging resistance. The results demonstrated excellent compatibility between SBC and asphalt binder without causing agglomeration. The introduction of SBC significantly enhanced asphalt's high-temperature stability and resistance to deformation, while some adverse effects on low-temperature performance were found. The inclusion of SBC improved the anti-aging properties of asphalt, as indicated by various aging performance indices. A decreasing trend was observed for sulfoxide (S═O) 1,030 cm−1. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images revealed the changes in the size and shape of beelike structures, with smaller bee structures observed in SBC-modified asphalt (SBCMA). Overall, these microscopic structures were consistent with the rheological properties. Due to the improvement of high-temperature stability and anti-aging properties, SBC could prove to be an environmentally friendly and sustainable modifier for asphalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study shows how the presence of metal-impregnated biochar influences the kinetics of the catalytic conversion of waste motor oil (WMO) into a diesel-like fuel (DLF). First, the initial metal concentration in the wet impregnation process was optimized, showing that high metal concentrations tend to clog the biochar pores, reducing the reaction's conversion and speed. Zinc and calcium showed higher kinetic constants at the optimized conditions than nickel, while the yield- and selectivity-to-liquid products were unaffected. Then, a reduction method was developed for impregnating metal particles of calcium oxide to enhance the metal dispersion at the biochar surface. This material showed the best performance in the reaction due to the presence of small particles instead of metal agglomerates. An increase of about 280% in the kinetic constant at 420 °C and a much lower activation energy (246 kJ mol−1) compared to the thermal cracking (308 kJ mol−1) was obtained. Finally, the DLF from the best catalytic system was analyzed. Interestingly, the fuel showed similar rheological properties to commercial diesel with a similar hydrocarbon distribution but with the presence of smaller hydrocarbon chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing mining industry has led to environmental pollution, primarily from mining waste known as acid mine drainage (AMD). To effectively address AMD, a combination of constructed wetland and biochar treatment is necessary. This study aims to assess the ability of biochar in combination with wetland sediment to reduce sulfate and cadmium (Cd) heavy metals in AMD. The research method involved a laboratory-scale constructed wetland in a microcosmos and a treatment of: T1, biochar mixed with wetland sediment; T2, sediment; T3, biochar; and T4, control with no treatment. Observations included sulfate content, pH determination, heavy metal concentration, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of the biochar. Results after 30 days of observation showed that T1 reduced sulfate concentration by 72.03%, compared to 63.33% for T2, 63.33% for T3, and 2.50% for T4. The reduction in sulfate was accompanied by a consecutive increase in pH, with T1 at pH 6.9, T2 at pH 6.6, T3 at pH 6.4, and T4 at pH 3.6 after 30 days. T1 treatment reduced heavy metal Cd by 80.16% after 30 days, while T2 of 55.46%. T3 of 65.83% and T4 of 2.31%. This indicates that the constructed wetland method, combined with biochar, is more effective in reducing sulfate and the heavy metal Cd in AMD, compared to using only biochar or wetland sediment treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Biochar is regarded as a promising lithium-ion batteries anode material, owing to its high cost-effectiveness. However, the poor specific capacity and cycling stability have limited its practical applications. A straightforward and cost-efficient solvothermal method is presented for synthesizing Mn 3 O 4 /biochar composites in this study. By adjusting solvothermal temperatures, Mn 3 O 4 with different morphology is prepared and anchored on the biochar surface (MKAC-T) to improve the electrochemical performance. Due to the morphological effect of nanospherical Mn 3 O 4 on the biochar surface, the MKAC-180 anode material demonstrates outstanding reversible capacity (992.5 mAh/g at 0.2 A/g), significant initial coulombic efficiency (61.1 %), stable cycling life (605.3 mAh/g at 1.0 A/g after 1000 cycles), and excellent rate performance (385.8 mAh/g at 1.6 A/g). Moreover, electro-kinetic analysis and ex-situ physicochemical characterizations are employed to illustrate the charge storage mechanisms of MKAC-180 anode. This study provides valuable insights into the "structure–activity relationship" between Mn 3 O 4 microstructure and electrochemical performance for the Mn 3 O 4 /biochar composites, illuminating the industrial utilization of biomass carbon anode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effects of conventional biochar and acid modified biochar on water infiltration, with no biochar as the control (CK), 2 kinds of biochar with 3 additive amounts of 2%, 4% and 8% (mass fraction) were set up to conduct vertical one-dimensional water infiltration test. The dynamic changes of cumulative infiltration amount and wetting front migration were measured and discussed. The results showed that biochar increased the cumulative infiltration volume, shortened the wetting front transport time and improved the infiltration rate, and the larger the amount of biochar added, the more obvious the effect. Biochar improved the water holding capacity of coastal saline soils, and the effect of acid modified biochar on increasing the water content of shallow soil was more obvious. The one dimensional algebraic model was suitable for the water content of the tillage layer of coastal saline soil after the addition of biochar, and simulated the water distribution of the soil tillage layer after the infiltration test. Overall, the addition of 4% acid modified biochar was beneficial for improving the infiltration capacity and water holding characteristics of coastal saline soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Journal of Irrigation & Drainage Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Growing concerns regarding the presence of pharmaceuticals in wastewater necessitate their removal. Membrane filtration offers a promising approach. This study explores the development of biochar incorporated mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for ciprofloxacin removal from water. Biochar, derived from the pyrolysis of agricultural waste, was blended with polyether sulfone (PES) and polyvinylpyrrolidone in varying ratios. The resulting MMMs exhibited progressively improved properties with increasing biochar content. Notably, membrane M11, comprising equal parts PES and biochar, displayed the highest porosity, lowest surface roughness (12.0), and lowest contact angle (31.05°), indicating enhanced hydrophilicity (increased by 58.19% compared to the biochar-free membrane). M11 effectively removed ciprofloxacin along with three additional antibiotics from different classes. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses corroborated the removal of ciprofloxacin. Furthermore, M11 demonstrated excellent regenerability, retaining over 57% removal efficiency after four cycles. These findings highlight the potential of M11 as a sustainable and cost-effective membrane for pharmaceutical removal from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of the Chinese Ceramic Society is the property of Bulletin of the Chinese Ceramic Society Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Inappropriate fertilizer application for rice crop resulted in the yield and soil fertility issues, then biochar and bioorganic utilization considered as the best solution for this situation. This study aimed to assess the combination of biochar and BOFs on growth and yield of lowland rice. The experiments were conducted at the field in Thua Thien Hue province, Central Vietnam in two crop seasons from 2023-2024. The completely randomized block experimental design involved three replications with five treatment combinations i.e., 100% NPK (control); 80% NPK + 5 t/ha BOF + 2 t/ha biochar; 80% CMOF + 5 t/ha BF + 2 t/ha biochar + 400 kg/ha lime; 70% CMOF + 5 t/ha BOF + 3 t/ha biochar + 400 kg/ha lime; 60% CMOF + 10 t/ha BOF + 3 t/ha biochar + 400 kg/ha lime. The effect of these treatments was analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and least significant difference (LSD) with a 95% confidence level (α=0.05). We found that the optimal combination is 80% NPK + 5 t/ha BOF + 2 t/ha biochar on rice plant height (98.67 cm), dry matter (12.43 g/plant) and economic yields (6.95 t/ha). The combination is capable of increasing the rice productivity according to rice performance and yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small particle size of nanoplastics allows them to migrate through soil and make them highly bioavailable, posing a potential threat to groundwater. Measures are urgently needed to reduce the migration of nanoplastics in soil. However, there is limited research available on this topic. In this study, two types of iron-modified biochar (magnetic corncob biochar (MCCBC) and magnetic walnut shell biochar (MWSBC)) were selected and their effects on the transport of polyvinyl chloride nanoplastics (PVC-NPs) in natural sandy soil columns under different ionic types and strengths were investigated. The results show that the transport of PVC-NPs in single sandy soil columns was rapid and efficient, with the estimated breakthrough rate of 85.10%. However, the presence of MCCBC and MWSBC (0.5%, w/w) significantly inhibited the transport of PVC-NPs in sandy soil columns (p < 0.05), and MCCBC had a stronger inhibitory effect on the transport of PVC-NPs than MWSBC. This can be attributed to the fact that the adsorption of PVC-NPs on adsorbents followed the order as: MCCBC > MWSBC > sandy soil. The retention of PVC-NPs by MCCBC and MWSBC is determined by ionic type and ionic strength. The presence of coexisting ions enhanced the inhibitory effect of iron-modified biochar on the transport of PVC-NPs, with the following order: Ca2+ > SO2- 4 > Cl− > NO- 3. The inhibitory effect of MCCBC and MWSBC on the transport of PVC-NPs in soil columns increased with increasing ionic strengths. Furthermore, MCCBC and MWSBC inhibited the migration of PVC-NPs in a rainwater-soil system. The mechanisms by which MCCBC and MWSBC affect the transport of PVC-NPs in soil columns were considered to enhancing adsorption and decreasing soil pore volume. The results provide new insights into the management of soil nanoplastic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using residues from cooking oil production to produce alternative biochar fuels along with optimizing the pyrolysis process. The work consisted of carrying out the pyrolysis process at varying temperatures and holding times at the final temperature, and then evaluating the energy potential of the materials studied. Taking into account aspects of environmental emissions, the content of selected oxides in the flue gases generated during the combustion of cakes and the biochar obtained from them was evaluated. Plant biomass derived from a variety of oilseeds, i.e., fennel flower (Nigella sativa L.), rapeseed (Brassica napus L. var. Napus), flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis L.), milk thistle (Silybum marianum L. Gaertn.) and hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), was used to produce biochar. The experimental data have shown that the obtained biochar can have a calorific value of nearly 27 MJ kg−1. The use of pyrolysis allowed for a maximum increase in the calorific value of nearly 41% compared to non-thermally processed cakes and a several-fold decrease in carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide emissions. According to these results, it can be concluded that the pyrolysis process can be an attractive method for using residues from the production of various cooking oils to produce alternative biofuels, developing the potential of the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed at converting meat industry waste, particularly waste bones and chicken feathers, into biochar to recycle valuable nutrients present in it, which ultimately become part of the municipal waste. The bone biochar (BB) and feathers biochar (FB) were prepared at 550 °C, and their potential was evaluated as an organic amendment for the growth of sunflower. The ash content (AC) and fixed carbon (FC) improved significantly in prepared biochars as compared to raw feedstock. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses signaled the occurrence of various functional groups viz. amide group and hydroxyapatite, porosity, and multiple nutrients. Application of BB and FB in potted soil alone as well as in composites (1:1, 1:2, 2:1) at 1%, 3%, and 5% (w/w) and synthetic fertilizer significantly increased soil pH, electrical conductivity (ECe), organic matter (OM) and water holding capacity (WHC), while reducing the bulk density (BD). The growth of plants grown in soil treated with a 2:1 composite of feathers and bone biochar at 5% application rate showed significantly greater differences in plant height, total chlorophyll content, and plant dry weight than the control but was comparable to growth with chemical fertilizer, rendering it a potential alternative to chemical-based synthetic fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for mineral resources has generated mine tailings with heavy metals (HM) that negatively impact human and ecosystem health. Therefore, it is necessary to implement strategies that promote the immobilization or elimination of HM, like phytoremediation. However, the toxic effect of metals may affect plant establishment, growth, and fitness, reducing phytoremediation efficiency. Therefore, adding organic amendments to mine tailings, such as biochar, can favor the establishment of plants, reducing the bioavailability of HM and its subsequent incorporation into the food chain. Here, we evaluated HM bioaccumulation, biomass, morphological characters, chlorophyll content, and genotoxic damage in the herbaceous Crotalaria pumila to assess its potential for phytostabilization of HM in mine tailings. The study was carried out for 100 days on plants developed under greenhouse conditions under two treatments (tailing substrate and 75% tailing/25% coconut fiber biochar substrate); every 25 days, 12 plants were selected per treatment. C. pumila registered the following bioaccumulation patterns: Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd in root and in leaf tissues. Furthermore, the results showed that individuals that grew on mine tailing substrate bioaccumulated many times more metals (Zn: 2.1, Cu: 1.8, Cd: 5.0, Pb: 3.0) and showed higher genetic damage levels (1.5 times higher) compared to individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar. In contrast, individuals grown on mine tailing substrate with biochar documented higher chlorophyll a and b content (1.1 times more, for both), as well as higher biomass (1.5 times more). Therefore, adding coconut fiber biochar to mine tailing has a positive effect on the establishment and development of C. pumila individuals with the potential to phytoextract and phytostabilize HM from polluted soils. Our results suggest that the binomial hyperaccumulator plant in combination with this particular biochar is an excellent system to phytostabilize soils contaminated with HM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass pyrolysis by-products, such as biochar (BC) and wood vinegar (WV), are widely used as soil conditioners and efficiency enhancers in agriculture. A pot experiment was conducted to examine the effects of WV, both alone and in combination with BC, on soil properties in mildly saline soil and on cotton stress tolerance. The results demonstrated that BC and WV application, either individually or together, increased soil nutrient content. The combined application was more effective than the individual applications, resulting in a 5.18–20.12% increase in organic matter, a 2.65–15.04% increase in hydrolysable nitrogen, a 2.23–58.05% increase in effective phosphorus, and a 2.71–29.38% increase in quick-acting potassium. Additionally, the combined application of WV and BC led to greater improvements in cotton plant height, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), leaf nitrate reductase (NR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) activities compared to the application of BC or WV alone. The enhancements in this study varied across different parameters. Plant height showed an increase of 14.32–21.90%. Net photosynthetic rate improved by 13.56–17.60%. Leaf nitrate reductase increased by 5.47–37.79%. Superoxide dismutase and catalase showed improvements of 5.82–64.95% and 10.36–71.40%, respectively (p < 0.05). Moreover, the combined treatment outperformed the individual applications of WV and BC, resulting in a significant decrease in MDA levels by 2.47–51.72% over the experimental period. This combined treatment ultimately enhanced cotton stress tolerance. Using the entropy weight method to analyze the results, it was concluded that the combined application of WV and BC could enhance soil properties in mildly saline soils, increase cotton resistance, and hold significant potential for widespread application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on soil biochar fertilization has mainly been conducted on cereal crops, and information on its potential for radish production remains inconsistent. Therefore, a pot experiment was conducted to examine the short-term effects of rice husk biochar on radish growth and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). An investigation was conducted with two application rates of biochar alone, (10 t ha−1 (B10) and 25 t ha−1 (B25), and biochar + chicken manure application with and without NPK fertilizer. The results indicated that the application of biochar 25 t ha−1 + chicken manure (B25:CHM) and the combination of biochar 25 t ha−1 + chicken manure + NPK fertilizer (B25:CHM:NPK) significantly increased root yield by improving NUE, fertilizer recovery efficiency (REN), agronomic efficiency (AE), nitrogen harvest index (NHI), and retaining soil NH4+-N. Although biochar application alone did not significantly influence radish growth on a short-term basis, B10 and B25 increased root yields by 10% and 20%, respectively, compared with the control. Notably, the role of biochar application when combined with organic and inorganic fertilizers was to retain fertilizer N and promote N uptake efficiency by radishes, as higher rates of biochar resulted in higher NUE. Our results suggest that B25:CHM is a suitable combination for organic farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using rapeseed straw as a raw material and potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) and urea (CO(NH2)2) as modification reagents, the pyrolysis raw materials were mixed in a certain proportion, and the unmodified biochar GBC800, KHCO3-modified biochar KGBC800, and (KHCO3)/(CO(NH2)2) co-modified biochar N-KGBC800 were, respectively, prepared using the one-pot method at 800 °C. The physicochemical properties, such as surface morphology, pore characteristics, functional group distribution, and elemental composition of the three biochars, were characterized, and the adsorption performance and mechanism of the typical antibiotic tetracycline (TC) in water were studied. The results showed that the surface of GBC800 was smooth and dense, with no obvious pore structure, and both the specific surface area and total pore volume were small; the surface of KGBC800 showed an obvious coral-like three-dimensional carbon skeleton, the number of micropores and the specific surface area were significantly improved, and the degree of carbonization and aromatization was enhanced; N-KGBC800 had a coral-like three-dimensional carbon skeleton similar to KGBC800, and there were also many clustered carbon groups. The carbon layer changed significantly with interlayer gaps, presenting a multi-level porous structure. After N doping, the content of N increased, and new nitrogen-containing functional groups were formed. When the initial TC concentration was 100 mg/L, pH ≈ 3.4, the temperature was 25 °C, and the dosage of the three biochars was 0.15 g/L, the adsorption equilibrium was reached before 720 min. The adsorption capacities of GBC800, KGBC800, and N-KGBC800 for TC were 16.97 mg/g, 294.86 mg/g, and 604.71 mg/g, respectively. Fitting the kinetic model to the experimental data, the adsorption of TC by the three biochars was more in line with the pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetic model, and the adsorption isotherm was more in line with the Langmuir model. This adsorption process was a spontaneous endothermic reaction, mainly chemical adsorption, specifically involving multiple adsorption mechanisms such as pore filling, electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonds, n−π interaction, Lewis acid–base interaction, π−π stacking, or cation −π interaction between the aromatic ring structure of the carbon itself and TC. A biochar-adsorption column was built to investigate the dynamic adsorption process of tetracycline using the three biochars against the background of laboratory pure water and salt water. The adsorption results show that the Thomas model and the Yoon–Nelson model both provide better predictions for dynamic adsorption processes. The modified biochars KGBC800 and N-KGBC800 can be used as preferred materials for the efficient adsorption of TC in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive mill waste (olive pomace, OP, and olive stone, OS) was used in this work to produce adsorbents for the removal of five phenolic acids typically found in olive mill wastewater. OP and OS were subjected to different treatments (combined or not) that were chemically modified (NaOH) or physically modified by two different methods, incipient wetness impregnation (IWI) and hydrothermal deposition (HD), and even biochar production obtaining a total of 16 materials. The materials were characterized by different analytical techniques such as N2 absorption, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and pH zero-potential charge. The mixture of five phenolic acids was used to evaluate in batch conditions the adsorption capacity of the prepared materials. OS chemically modified with IWI (OSM-IWI) and OS biochar with HD (BOS-HD) presented better adsorption capacity at 157.1 and 163.6 mg/g of phenolic acids, respectively, from a total of 200 mg/g. For some materials, the surface area cannot be correlated with adsorption capacity, unlike pHzpc, where high values fit better adsorption rates. The infrared spectroscopy profile indicates the presence of O-H and N-H functional groups and, the last one, red-shifted in the IWI preparation compared to the HD one. In addition to this, the prepared material from olive mill waste can be suitably used for the mixture of phenolic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant functioning, photosynthesis, and metabolic activities. In terrestrial settings, nitrogen is not always sufficiently available because its basic form (N2) must be fixed into other forms, such as nitrate and ammonium, to be usable by plants. Adding nitrogenous fertilizer to soils may provide a means of increasing forest productivity. Ammoniacal nitrogen (N-NH3), an effluent produced during gold extraction, requires mining companies to manage its long-distance and costly transportation offsite for disposal. Applying this nitrogenous effluent, in its treated form of ammonium sulfate (ammoniacal nitrogen from mine water was converted into ammonium sulfate locally), to regional forest stands could provide a cost-effective and more environmentally sound means of managing this waste product and enhance forest productivity. Here, we conducted greenhouse- and field-based experiments to evaluate ammonium sulfate fertilization on black spruce (Picea mariana) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana) seedling growth. We assigned five treatments, varying in terms of the fertilizer concentration and presence/absence of biochar, to seedlings in greenhouse trials. We also applied various concentrations of ammonium sulfate to an 8-year-old black spruce plantation in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Québec. We found that black spruce and jack pine seedlings experienced greater growth than the controls in terms of the stem diameter (32–44%), seedling height (21–49%), and biomass (86–154%). In the field experiment, we observed 37% greater volumetric growth in plots receiving medium-level fertilization than the control. Although nitrogen fertilization lowered the soil pH, essential nutrients increased to favor greater seedling growth. Thus, ammonium sulfate, derived from local mining effluent, appears to offer a suitable alternative for enriching nitrogen-limited boreal soils and increasing tree growth. This application could benefit both regional mining industries and forest management bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Colombia alone, 12.6 million bags of green coffee are produced, but at the same time, 784,000 tons of waste biomass are dumped in open fields, of which only 5% is recovered or used, and 10 million tonnes of coffee emit 28.6 million tonnes of CO2 eq annually. This presents a worrying dilemma, and the need to develop a technology to transform the waste into usable products is increasing. As a response to this, the valorization of coffee waste was explored through the production of biochar and platform chemicals by implementing a set of hydrothermal experiments with different biomass/water ratios (1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:40), particle sizes (0.5, 1, 2, 5 mm), stirring rates (5000 and 8000 rpm), and catalysts (H2SO4, NaHCO3 and CH3COOH) at 180, 220, and 260 °C in a batch reactor with autogenous pressure. Notably, the smaller B:W ratios of 1:20 and 1:40, as well as smaller particle sizes of 0.5 and 1 mm, yielded higher amounts of platform chemicals, while stirring showed minimal influence. CH3COOH significantly enhanced the process compared to other catalysts. The biochar was characterized as anthracite, and this obtaining of coal-like materials from biomass itself represents a remarkable feat. Said anthracite presented little to no variation in physical parameters, while catalysts induced functionalization. By optimizing factors like B:W ratio, particle size, and catalyst application, valuable insights have been gained into enhancing the yield of platform chemicals and quality of biochar from coffee waste. The findings not only contribute to sustainable waste management practices but also highlight the importance of exploring innovative solutions for utilizing agricultural by-products effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the valorization of pea pod waste using hydrothermal processes, focusing on optimizing key parameters such as temperature, biomass-to-water ratio, particle size, and catalyst influence. Noteworthy findings include the significant impact of temperature variations on product yields, with 180 °C favoring sugars, HMF, and furfural, while 220 °C and 260 °C lead to distinct platform chemical productions. The utilization of a 1:20 biomass-to-water ratio consistently enhances yields by 10%, underscoring its importance in promoting efficient hydrolysis without excessive product degradation. Furthermore, the investigation into particle size reveals that smaller dimensions, particularly 1 mm particles, improved heat and mass transfer, reduced diffusion barriers, and enhanced digestibility, ultimately boosting overall efficiency in platform chemical production. Moreover, the study sheds light on the role of catalysts in the hydrothermal processes, showcasing the differential impact of acid and basic catalysts on product yields. Acid catalysts demonstrate a notable increase of up to 135.5% in the production of platform chemicals, emphasizing their crucial role in enhancing reaction efficiency. The complex relationship between agitation, temperature, and product formation is elucidated, with experiments revealing varying outcomes based on the presence or absence of agitation at different temperatures. These findings provide valuable insights into optimizing pea pod waste valorization, offering a pathway towards sustainable and efficient conversion of agricultural residues into valuable platform chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bitter melon vine (an agricultural waste product with high fiber content) is difficult to treat and has caused problems in the environment. This research aims to produce biochar through low-temperature pyrolysis assisted by non-polluting steam explosion. The physical and chemical properties of the biochar were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, specific surface area measurements (BET), X-ray diffraction patters (XRD), elemental analysis (EA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Next, the adsorption mechanism of methylene blue (MB) on the steam-exploded bitter melon vine biochar pyrolyzed at 200 °C (qBC200) and the effects of adsorption time, pH, initial concentration, adsorption temperature, and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption effect were investigated. Steam explosion destroyed the dense structure of the plant, increased the number of oxygen-containing surface functional groups, and improved the adsorption performance of the material. Therefore, qBC200 more effectively adsorbed MB than untreated biochar, reaching a saturated adsorption capacity of 267.72 mg/g. The MB adsorption kinetics and isothermal adsorption process of qBC200 align with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isothermal equation (monolayer adsorption), respectively. The thermodynamic results show that MB adsorbs via a spontaneous, entropy-increasing exothermic reaction. The adsorption mechanism involves electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, and π–π interactions. The prepared biomass with high fiber content is a promising new material for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar remediation technology is increasingly being valued due to its economic and environmental advantages in treating heavy metal contaminated soil. In order to comprehensively grasp the research progress in this field, we analyzed the current research status, hotspots, and development directions of biochar passivation remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil based on the core collection database of Web of Science from 2008 to 2022, using bibliometrics and CiteSpace visualization technology. The analysis results indicate that since 2014, research on biochar remediation technology has become a hot topic in the treatment of heavy metal contaminated soil, and the number of literature in this field has grown rapidly. The application scope, mechanism of action, application effect, preparation method, and optimization technology of biochar are the main focus of this field. The selection of iron-modified biochar in the rice-soil system, biochar-based nanocomposites, and the combined application of phytoremediation and biochar are current research hotspots. The interaction mechanism between biochar and soil system, microbial remediation technology based on biochar, potential long-term effects of biochar use, and separation technology between biochar and soil are future research directions in the field of biochar remediation of heavy metal contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fungi in water distribution systems and drinking water have already been reported and can produce mycotoxins. In this study, a wash-free immunochromatographic test strip (ICTS) based on magnetic rice husk biochar for the ultrasensitive detection of Aflatoxin B1(AFB1) in water and grain has been developed. Magnetic rice husk biochar (MB) was a green nanomaterial, which was synthesized from rice hull and characterized. Fe3O4 was formed within the amorphous and granular MB. Used as an enrichment tool for AFB1 in water and food, the MB-based ICTS method could detect MB-AFB1 complex without washing steps depending on the high affinity of the antibody. Compared with the diluted method, the developed ICTS method acquired sensitivity improvement 4-fold for the qualitative detection of AFB1 in rice. The absorption process was finished within 5 min. Interference of rice matrix showed minimum effect compared with brown rice and maize. This study provided a facile approach to prepare MB from rice husk for effective enrichment/removal of AFB1 in water and based on it, the wash-free magnetic pretreatment method will be an alternative tool for multiple target enrichment and quantitative determination in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC), a carbon‐dense substance created through the pyrolysis of organic biomass, has garnered considerable interest as a promising option for sustainable mitigation methods. A comprehensive examination of the diverse attributes of BC and its implications for addressing contemporary environmental issues while fostering sustainable practices is compiled in this review. The synthesis techniques and structural attributes of BC are scrutinized initially, emphasizing its remarkable features such as broad surface area, porosity, and active sites. These characteristics of BC are conducive to myriad environmental applications, including pollutant remediation, soil health enhancement, and carbon sequestration. Subsequently, this review delves into the mechanisms underlying BC's effectiveness in environmental remediation. BC exhibits augmented adsorption capacities, catalytic functionalities, and interactions with microorganisms, facilitating the removal of contaminants from different matrices of the environment. Recently, BC and their products such as nano‐BC have gained widespread recognition as a feasible option for sustainable carbon material. Fabrication, characterization, modification, and diverse applications of BC were also discussed in detail. Its integration into agriculture holds promise for enhancing soil organic matter, augmenting production, and mitigating gas emissions, thereby contributing to food security and climate change mitigation. In conclusion, BC and nano‐BC emerge as a promising avenue for addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable development objectives. However, further research is warranted to optimize synthesis methodologies, elucidate long‐term environmental implications, and facilitate scalable production for widespread adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is aimed at assessing the impact of biochar on the phytoaccumulation of heavy metals by okra and fluted pumpkin plants in soil polluted with petroleum hydrocarbons, and its corresponding environmental and health‐related risks. A field experiment was conducted at the automobile workshop (commonly called mechanic village) using a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The field was divided into plots and three replicates. Maize stalk biochar (MSB) and nipa palm biochar (NPB) were treated differently in each plot at a rate of 20 t ha−1. Plots containing no biochar were used as controls. The soil samples were analyzed for petroleum hydrocarbon content (PHCt), selected heavy metals as well as some other soil physicochemical properties. Plant samples were only analyzed for heavy metal contents. Analysis of variance was used to analyze the data generated. The PHCt and heavy metal content in the soil were compared with the target values set by the Department of Petroleum Resources of Nigeria whereas heavy metals in plants were compared with FAO/WHO guidelines. Okra and fluted pumpkin were evaluated for phytoaccumulating potential using bioaccumulation factor (BAF). Ecological risk assessment was done using a hazard quotient (HQ). The PHCt, cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) were significantly decreased following the application of biochar. The NPB recorded the lowest values for PHCt (64.4 mg kg−1), lead (16.0 mg kg−1), and Ni (12.8 mg kg−1) contents while MSB had the lowest values for Cd (0.3 mg kg−1) and Cr (7.6 mg kg−1) contents. The HQ analysis showed that Cr (2.93 mg kg−1) and Pb (156.83 mg kg−1) posed a very high ecological risk to the local ecosystem. The phytoaccumulated heavy metals in plants were above the maximum allowable levels, except Ni where the content was below the maximum allowable levels. Fluted pumpkin had the highest BAF values for Cd, Cr, Pb, and Ni. Therefore, fluted pumpkin can be used as an efficient phytoremediator for soil contaminated with Cd, Cr, Pb, and Ni. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers in response to the escalating costs of fertilizers and environmental limitations, it is imperative to enhance crop productivity and soil fertility sustainably. This research was carried out at the Agricultural Research Farm of Abdul Wali Khan University in Mardan, Pakistan, with the objective of investigating the effects of biochar on the qualitative attributes of mung beans. The randomize complete block design (RCBD) was used for the experiment having four replication. The treatments comprised of four levels of biochar i.e. 0, 10, 20 and 30 t ha−1. Our results revealed that increasing biochar content caused an increase in yield components as well as attribute composition. The nodule density (17.8), pods plant−1 (27.3), grains pods−1 (11.4) and biological yield (6497 kg ha−1) produced best results under the application of 30 t ha−1 of biochar. Moreover, grain yield (1550 kg ha−1), grain nitrogen content (25.2 g kg−1) and straw nitrogen content (15.3 g kg−1) also resulted best under 30 t ha−1 biochar. While, 1000 grain weight (64 g) was recorded highest weight under 20 t ha−1. The quality attributes showed that the oil content (41.1%), as well as the saturated and unsaturated fatty acid contents (13.7%), were found to be the best under the application of 30 t ha−1. While, protein (23.37%) and linoleic acid (23.128%) content were the highest at 10 t ha−1of biochar. Moreover, the palmitic acid (6.1025%) and stearic acid (2.64%) content resulted higher under 20 t ha−1 of biochar. All the attributes showed positive response to either small level of biochar or a large level, but their response showed that biochar can be a factor that improves both yield and quality. The study therefore suggests that biochar should be applied to the soil to improve its fertility in regards of nutrient and increased organic matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of Phalaris seed peel (PSP) for the production of biochar involves the pyrolysis process in an N2 environment, resulting in the creation of a cost-effective sorbent. Two distinct modifications were conducted on the existing biochar (BC), employing just silicate (BC/SiO2) and in combination with iron-silicate (BC/SiO2/Fe). Several analytical methods were used to look at the modified biochar's physical and chemical properties. These included scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis-differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA), and surface area analysis. Based on the initial investigations, it has been revealed that the use of silica and iron as the second modification is a more suitable approach for effectively retaining 133Ba from liquid radioactive waste streams. The investigation of sorption kinetics and isotherms was conducted to enhance our understanding of the process. The Langmuir isotherm model demonstrates the most optimal correlation for sorption, yielding a maximum sorption capacity (Qmax) of 31 mg/g. Furthermore, an evaluation was performed on the BC/SiO2/Fe sorbent material by subjecting it to a mixture of simulated radioactive liquid waste, which included 133Ba, 60Co, and 137Cs.The experimental results indicate that BC/SiO2/Fe exhibits a comparatively higher sorption capacity for 133Ba when compared to 60Co and 137Cs as competing ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar and iron ore tailing waste have been widely separately applied for remediation of various contaminants, but the remediation effect of their combination on cadmium (Cd) pollution is unclear. In this study, the peanut biochar (BC), thermally activated iron ore tailing waste (TS), and the products of the co-pyrolysis of peanut shell and iron ore tailing waste (TSBC) were prepared for stabilizing Cd and reducing its bio-accessibility in soil and peanut seedling system. Present amendments enhanced soil pH, cation exchange capacity, electrical conductivity, and organic carbon content. The application of BC, TS, and TSBC led to decreases in acid-extractable Cd proportion of 2.2–8.81%, 2.43–7.20%, and 7.84–11.57%, respectively, and increases in the residual Cd proportion of 3.48–8.33%, 3.27–11.50%, and 9.02–13.45%, respectively. There were no significant differences in Cd accumulation in peanut roots due to three amendments treatments, especially at low Cd concentrations (i.e., Cd concentration of 0, 1, and 2 mg·kg−1), and with a relatively small reduction (2.16–9.05%) in root Cd accumulation under the high Cd treatments of 5 and 10 mg·kg−1. The Cd concentrations in seedling roots were significantly positively related to the acid-extractable Cd fraction, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of r = 0.999. The maximum toxicity mitigating effects were found in TSBC treatment, with increases in the ranges of 9.80–17.58% for fresh weight, 5.59–14.99% for dry weight, 5.16–10.17% for plant height, 5.96–10.34% for root length, 5.43–21.67% for chlorophyll a content, 17.17–71.28% for chlorophyll b content, and 13.11–39.60% for carotenoid content in peanut seedlings. Therefore, TSBC is a promising amendment for minimizing Cd contamination in peanut crops and utilizing industrial solid waste materials efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dye decolorization through biological treatment techniques has been gaining momentum as it is based on suspended and attached growth biomass in both batch and continuous modes. Hence, this review focused on the contribution of moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR) in dye removal. MBBR have been demonstrated to be an excellent technology for pollution extraction, load shock resistance, and equipment size and energy consumption reduction. The review went further to highlight different biocarrier materials for biofilm development this review identified biochar as an innovative and environmentally friendly material produced through the application of different kinds of reusable or recyclable wastes and biowastes. Biochar as a carbonized waste biomass could be a better competitor and environmentally friendly substitute to activated carbon given its lower mass costs. Biochar can be easily produced particularly in rural locations where there is an abundance of biomass-based trash. Given that circular bioeconomy lowers dependency on natural resources by turning organic wastes into an array of useful products, biochar empowers the creation of competitive goods. Thus, biochar was identified as a novel, cost-effective, and long-term management strategy since it brings about several essential benefits, including food security, climate change mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and sustainability improvement. This review concludes that integrating two treatment methods could greatly lead to better color, organic matter, and nutrients removal than a single biological MBBR treatment process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addressed the bioaccumulation and human health risk among the consumption of Spinacia oleracea grown in agricultural soil treated with humic acid (189–2310 ppm) and biochars (0.00–5.10%.wt). The biochars came from two local feedstocks of rice-husk (RH) and sugar-beet-pulp (SBP) pyrolyzed at temperatures 300 and 600 °C. Total concentrations of Cu, Cd, and Ni found in both the soil and biomass/biochar exceeded global safety thresholds. The bioaccumulation levels of HMs in spinach leaves varied, with Fe reaching the highest concentration at 765.27 mg kg−1 and Cd having the lowest concentration at 3.31 mg kg−1. Overall, the concentrations of Zn, Cd, Pb, and Ni in spinach leaves exceeded the safety threshold limits, so that its consumption is not recommended. The assessment of hazard quotient (HI) for the HMs indicated potential health hazards for humans (HI > 1) from consuming the edible parts of spinach. The biochar application rates of 4.35%wt and 0.00%.wt resulted in the highest (3.69) and lowest (3.15) HI values, respectively. The cumulative carcinogenic risk (TCR) ranged from 0.0085 to 0.0119, exceeding the cancer risk threshold. Introducing 5.10%wt biomass/biochar resulted in a 36% rise in TCR compared to the control. The utilization of humic acid alongside HMs-polluted biochars results in elevated levels of HMs bioaccumulation exceeding the allowable thresholds in crops (with a maximum increase of 49% at 2000 ppm humic acid in comparison to 189 ppm). Consequently, this raised the HI by 46% and the TCR by 22%. This study demonstrated that the utilization of HMs-polluted biochars could potentially pose supplementary health hazards. Moreover, it is evident that the utilization of HMs-polluted biochars in treating metal-contaminated soil does not effectively stabilize or reduce pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of urban derived biochars such as Sugarcane bagasse (SB), Brinjal Stem (BS), and Citrus Peel (CP) produced at two different pyrolysis conditions (450 and 600 °C for 60 min) for soil heavy metal bioremediation potential. An ex-situ study was conducted to remediate single heavy metal-contaminated SoilRite with lead (Pb), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd), with biochars applied at different rates. Heavy metal status in soilrite was evaluated using various extraction methods (water-soluble, exchangeable, TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure), and PBET (Physiologically Based Extraction Tests)) to determine the biochar treatments' efficacy. The findings show that SB biochar at 450–60 are more effective in immobilizing heavy metals in water-soluble (Cd-100% Pb and Cu-70%), exchangeable (Pb:91%, Cd and Cu by 70–80%) and PBET-extracted forms (Cd-91%, Pb-80%, and Cu-75%), whereas biochar derived from BS (84%) and CP (90%) at 600–60 are more effective in immobilizing TCLP-extracted form of Pb and Cu. Urban derived biochars significantly reduced the toxicity of Pb, Cu, and Cd in various extractable forms and can stabilize and convert them into less accessible forms except for Cr. These extraction methods aid in evaluating environmental risks and influencing remediation strategies for soil heavy metal pollution. Urban biochar, as a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution, significantly solves this issue, facilitating sustainable waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogas contains significant quantities of undesirable and toxic compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), posing severe concerns when used in energy production-related applications. Therefore, biogas needs to be upgraded by removing H2S to increase their bioenergy application attractiveness and lower negative environmental impacts. Commercially available biogas upgradation processes can be expensive for small and medium-scale biogas production plants, such as wastewater treatment facilities via anaerobic digestion process. In addition, an all-inclusive review detailing a comparison of biochar and hydrochar for H2S removal is currently unavailable. Therefore, the current study aimed to critically and systematically review the application of biochar/hydrochar for H2S removal from biogas. To achieve this, the first part of the review critically discussed the production technologies and properties of biochar vs. hydrochar. In addition, exisiting technologies for H2S removal and adsorption mechanisms, namely physical adsorption, reactive adsorption, and chemisorption, responsible for H2S removal with char materials were discussed. Also, the factors, including feedstock type, activation strategies, reaction temperature, moisture content, and other process parameters that could influence the adsorption behaviour are critically summarised. Finally, synergy and trade-offs between char and biogas production sectors and the techno-economic feasibility of using char for the adsorption of H2S are presented. Biochar's excellent structural properties coupled with alkaline pH and high metal content, facilitate physisorption and chemisorption as pathways for H2S removal. In the case of hydrochar, H2S removal occurs mainly via chemisorption, which can be attributed to well-preserved surface functional groups. Challenges of using biochar/hydrochar as commercial adsorbents for H2S removal from biogas stream were highlighted and perspectives for future research were provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Political theory has long depended upon a clear boundary between life and non-life. Even work which emphasizes non-human beings (e.g., in animal rights, posthumanism or "new materialism") continues to reinforce the divide between the organic and the inorganic. This article undermines that division, highlighting marginal cases of life. The organicity of certain rocks and biochar, the growth of crystals, the machinic qualities of viruses: all point to an instability in the excluded middle between life and non-life. The article suggests alternative philosophical traditions to which political theory could turn—namely, panpsychism, hylozoism, and traditional animism—as conceptual and theoretical resources to examine these interstices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to demonstrate how biochar, derived from agricultural wastes can improve soil physical and chemical properties, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to increased agricultural productivity and long-term sustainability. In this review, we analyze the effects of biochar on various soil parameters, including soil bulk density, soil porosity, microbial activity, nutrient content, cation exchange capacities, pH, water holding capacity, and infiltration rates. The results highlight the practical importance of utilizing biochar to improve soil physical and chemical properties. Additionally, the results show that biochar is a practical strategy for improving the growth and yield of crops and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It can be concluded that biochar can significantly contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security in Jordan by improving soil health, enhancing water retention, and mitigating salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the quantity and quality of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) released from sewage sludge-derived biochar and digestion-derived biochar under different extraction conditions (deionised water, hot water, 0.1 mol·L-1 NaOH) using TOC analyser, UV-vis spectroscopy. Biochars were produced through the pyrolysis process at temperatures of 400, 500, 600, and 800 ℃. The objective of this article was to examine the influence of diverse extraction solutions on the amount of dissolved organic carbon (BDOC) released from biochars and to delineate alterations in the composition and characteristics of DOC contingent on the extraction parameters. The findings demonstrated that elevated pyrolysis temperatures resulted in a notable reduction in DOC concentration, with fractions extracted using NaOH exhibiting the highest DOC concentrations. SUVA254 analysis and the E2/E3 ratio indicated that biochars produced at higher temperatures contained a greater proportion of aromatic and hydrophobic substances. These results indicate that pyrolysis temperature, feedstock type and extraction conditions are of significant importance for the properties of DOC in biochar. This has important implications for their potential applications in soil management and carbon sequestration strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study instead phosphoric acid-modified peanut shell biochar was prepared and applied to treat Pb2+ contaminated soil. Firstly, its adsorption performance was verified. A variety of methods were used to characterize the materials before and after modification. The specific surface area analysis showed that the specific surface area of the modified biochar increased from 1.9475 to 4.2742 m2/g, and the total pore volume increased while the mean aperture decreased. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the surface of the modified biochar became rougher and rougher as the concentration of phosphoric acid increased. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy proves that resulting in the successful recombination of phosphoric acid groups on biochar. The results showed that the best effect was achieved when the ratio of phosphoric acid to peanut shell was 1:2. The adsorption conforms to pseudo-secondary kinetics and Langmuir adsorption isotherms. XRD results showed that Pb5(PO4)3OH crystal peak was formed after phosphoric acid-modified peanut shell biochar adsorption of Pb2+, indicating that Pb2+ was precipitated on the surface of phosphoric acid-modified peanut shell biochar during adsorption. The quantitative determination of the adsorption mechanism showed that 66.12% of Pb2+ was immobilized by the formation of mineral precipitation. Later, phosphoric acid-modified peanut shell biochar was used to improve electrokinetic in-situ leaching remediation techniques to treat soil Pb2+. The results showed that the average removal rate of Pb2+ increased from 54.56 to 74.3%, and the lead content of weak acid leaching decreased from 14.09 to 2.83%. Residual lead increased from 10.12 to 15.79%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The influence of organic amendments on the interplay among soil extracellular enzyme activities (EEAs) and their stoichiometry (EES) and nutrient availabilities, key indicators of resource limitations for soil microbes, is poorly understood. This study aims to investigate how manure compost (hereafter "manure") and its biochar derivative affect EEAs, EES and soil fertility. Materials and methods: We studied EEAs (BG, β-glucosidase; CBH, cellobiohydrolase; LAP, Leucine aminopeptidase; NAG, β-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase and AP, acid phosphatase), EES and soil fertility two years post-application of manure and biochar in central Alberta, Canada. Results and discussion: Applying manure and its biochar did not affect soil permanganate oxidable carbon (C), total phosphorus (P), and available P and nitroegn (N). Manure application increased NAG activity by 13.9% (75.9 nmol h−1 g−1 soil) relative to the control (66.6 nmol h−1 g−1 soil), whereas biochar application increased LAP activity by 22.1% (64.6 nmol h−1 g−1 soil) compared to the manure treatment (52.9 nmol h−1 g−1 soil), suggesting that manure addition caused microbial C limitation, while biochar addition led to microbial N limitation. However, both manure and biochar treatments did not affect soil NAG, CBH and AP, and enzymatic C:N, C:P, and N:P stoichiometry. Manure and biochar and their interactions with the soil ultimately affect soil physicochemical properties. Conclusions: Manure and its biochar differentially altered some soil N-cycling EEAs and C and N limitations two years after their applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the research work is to explore the objective and competence of COP (Conference of Parties) in the context of environmental issues and climate change management and this is performed by evaluating respective articles published in the context of the subject. COP is found efficient in empowering global nations to be aligned with the objective of sustainable growth by making corrective negotiations and agreements as per the current and future environmental issues like the greenhouse effect and air pollution. COP helps ensure environmental issues are fixed by conducting benchmark index-based performance reviews and analyses. It has been observed that the agenda significantly contributes to the green economy, as it promotes sustainable change and development in the environment, society, and economy. A significant innovative strategy was developed at the conference to reduce global temperatures and emissions. In this context, the development of the EV sector plays a crucial role in mitigating environmental impact. The COP28 conference is addressing the climate and nature crisis, considering it a global health emergency. Methodology states that the literature search is conducted from peer-reviewed journal articles from authentic sources like Wiley's Online Library and Science Direct Pages. Only the journals that were published after the year 2019 have been used in the study. Also, it is seen that COP28 (2023) conventions focused on global warming, climate change, and the production of a green economy, which is continuously being considered, and also, the implications and steps that are required to be taken are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally available apricot seed shell as agro-waste was used for the preparation of adsorbents. The biochar was prepared at 370°C via pyrolysis and 80 mesh particle sizes were modified by 1N HCl. Nitrate adsorption and effect of co-ions from aqueous solution were studied under batch model using apricot seed shell powder (ASSP), apricot seed shell biochar (ASSB), and activated apricot seed shell biochar (AASSB). FTIR and pHPZC measurements were used to characterize the adsorbents. Based on the experimental findings, the optimum conditions follow pH 2, 0.3g dosage, initial concentration of 50 mg.L-1, and contact time of 90 min. The three forms of adsorbent exhibited good adsorption for nitrate. However, the maximum percentage removal of nitrate ions from the aqueous solution followed the order AASSB>ASSB>ASSP. The adsorption kinetic of nitrate ion was best fitted by pseudo 2nd order, and the parameters of adsorption isotherms elucidated favorable and improved sorption. This agro-waste could be used to develop sustainable adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment methods and has great potential to replace commercially available sorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar can be a good soil amendment to reduce the soil pH, increase crop growth rate, and improve the efficient use of fertilizer. Other than that, silicon fertilizer also would promote photosynthetic ability on plant development that would help to produce high yield. In this work, a series of experiments was conducted to observe the effect of rice husk biochar and silicon fertilizer on the maize growth rate and soil pH. A 45-day pot experiment in the greenhouse with three replicates of 9 experimental treatment combinations of RHB at two rates (5 and 2.5 t.ha-1) with silicon fertilizer at three rates (125%, 100%, 75%), sole biochar (10 t.ha t.ha-1), sole silicon fertilizer (100%) and control (NPK) to observe the best rate and combination to improve growth rate and change in soil chemical in acid soil. The result showed that the co-application of sole biochar and biochar with Silicon significantly improved growth development, increased photosynthesis rate, altered soil pH, and reduced Fe concentration compared to control. The plant height increased 88.35% from T4 (5 t.ha-1 RHB + 100% Si) compared to the control and the conductance was higher in T4 (0.53) followed by T8 (0.438) while T1 (0.071) recorded the lowest conductance. The shoot fresh weight was higher in T4 (127.83 g) followed by T8 (57.14 g). However, the weight increased by 343.7% at T4 followed by T8 (2.5 t.ha-1 RHB + 75% Si) at 98.33%. The highest pH increment of 1.24 units (T1 = 5.53, T4 = 6.77) of soil pH was noted from T4 (5 t.ha-1 RHB + 100% Si) compared to control (NPK), and the highest total Fe in soil was observed from T1 (442.30 mg.kg-1). The current study results showed that T4 (50% RHB + 100% Silicon) was the best treatment over the other rates of RHB and silicon increased plant height, photosynthetic rate, and biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, kitchen waste which is otherwise discarded or allowed to putrefy and pose environmental discomfort is co-composted with biochar to assess the effects of the biochar on the composting of kitchen waste as well as the quality of the final compost. To achieve this, biochar was composted with kitchen waste (w/w) in ratios of 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% to determine its effect on composting process and the final compost product compared to cow dung-fortified kitchen waste as a control. Results indicate that pH and EC were not affected by biochar content during composting; however, biochar content had a profound effect on the attainment of thermophilic temperatures during composting, nitrification and other maturity/stability indexes such as germination index (GI), humification index (HI), degree of polymerization (DP) and HA/FA ratio. In effect, higher biochar content (more than 10% biochar/feedstock ratio) favored faster humification, higher available P and S content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]