In a study published in the Kuwait Journal of Science, Kazmi et al., explored the use of banana peel biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More (BPB) to remove carcinogenic methyl violet 2B dye (MV 2B) from wastewater. The research highlights a novel three-dimensional electrochemical system utilizing BPB as a particle electrode.  

The presence of water-soluble cationic dyes in wastewater poses significant threats to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. Traditional methods often fall short in effectively eliminating these pollutants. To combat this, the authors synthesized BPB from waste banana peels and tested its efficacy in a specialized electrochemical system.  

The study’s findings revealed that BPB possesses a high oxygen evolution potential (OEP) of 1.86 V. This high OEP is crucial as it facilitates the oxidation of the MV 2B dye while minimizing unwanted side reactions within the electrochemical system. Under optimal conditions, the system achieved an impressive 99.5% removal of a 10 mg/L concentration of MV 2B dye within 40 minutes.  

Compared to systems using commercial particle electrodes, the BPB-based system demonstrated superior performance. The process involves the generation of hydroxyl radicals, a potent reactive oxygen species, which plays a key role in breaking down the dye. Further analysis revealed that the dye degradation occurs through N-demethylation.  

This research not only presents an effective method for dye removal but also offers a sustainable approach by utilizing agricultural waste. This approach contributes to greener environmental solutions and promotes resource recovery.  

SOURCE: Kazmi, S. M. H., Du, J., Hassan, A., Xu, Z., Faheem, M., Waseem, O. A., & Yousuf, M. (2025). Turning waste into value: Banana peel biochar particle electrode boost methyl violet 2B dye removal in 3D-electrochemical system. Kuwait Journal of Science, 52, 100413.