In a world grappling with the environmental repercussions of rapid urbanization and industrialization, the quest for sustainable water purification methods has never been more urgent. Contaminants like antibiotics and dyes from pharmaceutical, textile, and dye manufacturing industries pose a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems due to their extreme toxicity and persistence. Traditional water treatment methods, though varied, often fall short in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. Enter the groundbreaking development of magnetic porous biochar (FeCS800), synthesized through a novel one-pot pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More method involving corn straw and K2FeO4.

FeCS800 emerges as a superior adsorbent, boasting remarkable adsorption capacities for orange G (OG) and tetracycline (TC) — approximately 303.03 mg/g and 322.58 mg/g, respectively. This performance represents a significant improvement over existing solutions, attributing to a homogeneous monolayer chemical process facilitated by FeCS800’s nanostructured surface. Notably, the adsorption process remains highly effective across a wide pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More range and in real water matrices, underscoring the adaptability and robustness of this material.

The synthesis of FeCS800 addresses the limitations of traditional iron-doped biochars, such as complicated preparation methods and unsatisfactory specific surface areas. By achieving a higher specific surface area and a more uniform distribution of active sites, FeCS800 ensures enhanced adsorption efficiency. Furthermore, its magnetic properties allow for easy separation from solutions, highlighting its practicality for large-scale applications.

Beyond its immediate benefits in contaminant removal, FeCS800 represents a significant stride towards the sustainable management of agricultural waste, particularly in countries with abundant straw resources. The study not only sheds light on the enhanced chemical properties and efficiency of biochar composites but also offers new perspectives on the adsorption mechanisms of dyes and antibiotics. This innovation not only promises a brighter future for water purification but also contributes to the broader goals of environmental protection and sustainable development.