In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, Jin et al., explored the effectiveness of a novel 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 composite for the simultaneous removal of cadmium (Cd) and antimony (Sb) from contaminated soils. The research focused on a MnFe2​O4​-biochar composite (MF-RBC) synthesized using a coprecipitation method.  

The presence of both cadmium and antimony in soil poses a significant threat to environmental and human health. Biochar has been widely investigated for its soil remediation potential, but its ability to remove multiple metals, especially with anions present, requires further study. This study aimed to address this by creating and testing the MF-RBC composite.  

The results of the study showed that the MF-RBC composite had maximum adsorption capacities of 11.24 mg/g for Cd(II) and 57.33 mg/g for Sb(V). These values are higher than those of pure rice husk biochar (RBC) and MnFe2​O4​ (MF) individually. The enhanced performance of the composite is attributed to its large specific surface area, improved dispersion of MnFe2​O4​ particles due to the biochar, and the presence of oxygen-containing groups.  

The study also revealed that the presence of Cd(II) had a synergistic effect on the removal of Sb(V). This is likely due to reduced negative charge repulsion between MF-RBC and Sb(V), and the formation of MF-Cd(II)-Sb(V) ternary complexes. Further analysis showed that MF-RBC decreased the availability of Cd and Sb by transforming them into more stable forms within the soil.  

In conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the behavior of Cd and Sb in contaminated environments and offers a promising strategy for improving soil remediation.  

SOURCE: Jin, C., Chen, X., Sun, S., Liu, Y., & Hu, B. (2025). Simultaneous removal of Cd(II) and Sb(V) by MnFe2​O4​-biochar composite: Performance and mechanisms. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 294, 118093.