Biosorption of Heavy Metal in Wastewater with Biochar: A Review
- 1Morgan State University
Abstract
Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of biomass under limited oxygen, offers a potentially sustainable and cost-competitive solution (qualitative assessment; quantitative LCA and techno-economic data are beyond the scope of this review) for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater. Its high porosity, surface area, and surface functional groups enable diverse adsorption mechanisms including complexation, ion exchange, and precipitation. Feedstock selection and production parameters critically influence biochar’s physicochemical properties and adsorption performance. Modification techniques such as chemical functionalization, metal impregnation, and composite formation enhance removal efficiency and selectivity for specific contaminants. Applications span industrial, municipal, and agricultural wastewaters, addressing multicontaminant challenges under variable environmental conditions. Factors affecting removal efficiency include pH, temperature, contaminant concentration, and competing ions, while regeneration methods are essential for maintaining long-term functionality and are discussed. Biochar can be reused and regenerated using bases and acids, but environmental risks related to biochar use, including potential contaminant leaching and ecological impacts, require careful management and regulatory compliance. Future research should focus on novel modification strategies, scaling production for industrial use, and optimizing integration within treatment systems to meet stringent discharge standards and promote sustainable water management.
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BibTeX
@article{solomon2026biosorption,
title = {{Biosorption of Heavy Metal in Wastewater with Biochar: A Review}},
author = {Nko Okina Solomon and Dong Hee Kang and Gbekeloluwa B. Oguntimein},
journal = {Sustainability},
year = {2026},
month = jun,
doi = {10.3390/su18126367},
url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su18126367},
note = {CC BY},
}
RIS
TY - JOUR
TI - Biosorption of Heavy Metal in Wastewater with Biochar: A Review
AU - Nko Okina Solomon
AU - Dong Hee Kang
AU - Gbekeloluwa B. Oguntimein
PY - 2026
DA - 2026/06/22
JO - Sustainability
DO - 10.3390/su18126367
UR - https://doi.org/10.3390/su18126367
AB - Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of biomass under limited oxygen, offers a potentially sustainable and cost-competitive solution (qualitative assessment; quantitative LCA and techno-economic data are beyond the scope of this review) for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater. Its high porosity, surface area, and surface functional groups enable diverse adsorption mechanisms including complexation, ion exchange, and precipitation. Feedstock selection and production parameters critically influence biochar’s physicochemical properties and adsorption performance. Modification techniques such as chemical functionalization, metal impregnation, and composite formation enhance removal efficiency and selectivity for specific contaminants. Applications span industrial, municipal, and agricultural wastewaters, addressing multicontaminant challenges under variable environmental conditions. Factors affecting removal efficiency include pH, temperature, contaminant concentration, and competing ions, while regeneration methods are essential for maintaining long-term functionality and are discussed. Biochar can be reused and regenerated using bases and acids, but environmental risks related to biochar use, including potential contaminant leaching and ecological impacts, require careful management and regulatory compliance. Future research should focus on novel modification strategies, scaling production for industrial use, and optimizing integration within treatment systems to meet stringent discharge standards and promote sustainable water management.
SN - 2071-1050
ER -