Aziz, et al (2024) 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 as green adsorbents for pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments: A review. Desalination. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.desal.2024.117725

Pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments poses significant environmental and health challenges. Traditional wastewater treatments often fail to effectively remove these contaminants, necessitating alternative solutions. Biochar, derived from various organic materials, has emerged as a promising adsorbent for water remediation due to its high surface area, diverse functionalities, and cost-effectiveness.

A recent review in Desalination highlights the potential of biochar and its modified composites in removing pharmaceutical pollutants from water. The study examines the preparation, adsorption mechanisms, and modifications of biochar to enhance its efficiency. Key factors influencing its sorption capacity include the choice of feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More materials and modification methods.

Biochar’s effectiveness in eliminating pharmaceuticals is well-documented, with studies showing that enhancing its surface characteristics—such as area, pore size, and functional groups—can significantly improve removal efficiency. The review discusses various production methods, including 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, hydrothermal carbonization, and gasificationGasification is a high-temperature, thermochemical process that converts carbon-based materials into a gaseous fuel called syngas and solid by-products. It takes place in an oxygen-deficient environment at temperatures typically above 750°C. Unlike combustion, which fully burns material to produce heat and carbon dioxide (CO2​), gasification More, each contributing differently to biochar’s properties.

Future research directions suggest further exploration of biochar modifications to enhance its adsorption capabilities and sustainability. The study underscores the need for continued investigation into biochar’s potential, aiming to address existing challenges and optimize its application in water treatment.

In conclusion, biochar represents a cost-effective, sustainable, and efficient approach for mitigating pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments, offering significant promise for large-scale environmental applications. The review provides a comprehensive understanding of biochar’s capabilities, guiding future research and practical implementations in water remediation.