Das (2024) Adsorption and desorption capacity of different metals influenced by biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More derived 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. Environmental Systems Research. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40068-024-00335-w

In this study, the impact of biochar, a soil additive, on nutrient retention and heavy metal adsorption in soil was explored. Biochar, known for its high cation exchange capacity (CEC), plays a crucial role in enhancing soil health and increasing the availability of nutrients for plant growth. The research utilized the Freundlich isotherm to demonstrate the adsorption of nutrients and heavy metals onto biochar.

As the application rate of biochar increased, the study observed a rise in mineral nutrients, 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, and electrical conductivity (EC), correlating with the elevated CEC. Particularly, the combination of manure and biochar at a specific application rate exhibited notable improvements in NH4+-N adsorption capacity, showcasing its potential impact on agricultural yield.

Moreover, the research highlighted the effectiveness of biochar in enhancing NO3–N adsorption capability and P adsorption compared to traditional manures. Interestingly, biochar application also demonstrated a favorable effect on decreasing the desorption of heavy metals like Cd, Pb, Zn, and As.

The study emphasized that goat manure, farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, and poultry manure had significant effects on desorption, indicating their potential role in environmental management. Overall, the findings suggest that the use of biochar can be a valuable strategy to address environmental concerns related to excess nutrients and heavy metals in soil, ultimately supporting sustainable agricultural practices.