Recent research published in Chemosphere reveals a promising approach for enhancing wastewater treatment through the synergistic use of biochar and Acinetobacter strains with activated sludge. This innovative combination significantly improves the removal of harmful contaminants such as manganese (Mn2+), iron (Fe2+), and ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) from wastewater.

In the study, Acinetobacter sp. AL-6 and biochar were integrated into activated sludge, forming a co-system. This co-system not only boosted the growth and resilience of beneficial bacteria but also enhanced the sludge’s biochemical properties. As a result, the treatment efficiency was remarkable, achieving near-total removal of NH4+-N, Mn2+, and Fe2+ while also reducing chemical oxygen demand (COD) by 96.8%.

One key benefit of this co-system is its ability to improve the activity and settling performance of activated sludge, which is crucial for maintaining effective wastewater treatment. The presence of biochar promoted the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which include tyrosine-like proteins and humic acids, further aiding in contaminant adsorption and sludge stability.

Moreover, microbial diversity analysis indicated that the co-system fostered a thriving microbial community, particularly the dominant Acinetobacter sp. AL-6, which played a crucial role in the nitrification and adsorption processes. This enhanced microbial environment is vital for the sustained effectiveness of wastewater treatment under challenging conditions.

The study also demonstrated the practical application of this co-system in treating real electrolytic manganese slag leachate, achieving high removal rates for NH4+-N, Mn2+, and Fe2+. These findings suggest significant potential for large-scale engineering applications, offering a more efficient and eco-friendly solution for managing industrial wastewater contamination.