Investigation on Pb2+ adsorption characteristics by AAEMs-rich biochar in aqueous solution: Performance and mechanism.

Biochar derived from soybean straw with AAEMs (alkali and alkaline earth metals) enrichment could efficiently remove heavy metals from contaminated water. In this study, the influences of pyrolysis temperature on the physicochemical property and adsorption performance of soybean straw biochar were investigated. The contributions of different adsorption mechanisms were analyzed quantitatively. The results show that the soybean straw biochar exhibits excellent Pb2+ adsorption performance (157.2–227.2 mg g−1), with an order of BC800 > BC400 > BC600 > BC700 > BC500. The mechanisms of metal ion exchange (37.49%–72.58%) and precipitation with minerals (22.38%–58.03%) mainly control the Pb2+ adsorption, whereas complexation with organic functional groups (OFGs) and cation-Cπ interaction make the less contribution. The order of cation exchange capacity (CEC) is BC400 > BC800 > BC700 > BC600 > BC500, showing a high correlation (0.965) with the contribution of metal ion exchange with AAEMs. Moreover, Ca exhibits the strongest exchange capacity. The contribution of precipitation is consistent with the variation of soluble CO 3 2− content in biochar. These results suggest that soybean straw biochar rich in AAEMs is a prospective adsorbent for Pb2+ elimination. [Display omitted] • Soybean straw biochar rich in AAEMs exhibits excellent Pb2+ adsorption performance. • The adsorption behavior is significantly affected by the pyrolysis temperature. • Metal ion exchange and precipitation with minerals dominate the Pb2+ adsorption. • The CEC and soluble CO 3 2− are key properties governing the adsorption capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]