Efficient Selenium Oxyanion Removal Using Nano-Zerovalent Copper Biochar Composite

Researchers developed a nano-zerovalent copper biochar composite for efficient removal of selenium oxyanions from water. Batch experiments demonstrated high removal capacities, reduction of Se oxyanions, and stable complex formation. The study considered real-world conditions and employed advanced characterization techniques, offering a promising solution for water treatment.

March 1, 2024

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Abbasi, Rizvi, et al (2024) Nano-zerovalent copper 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 treating selenium oxyanions in water: synthesis, evaluation, removal mechanism, density functional theory, and molecular dynamics simulations. *Chemical Engineering Journal.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2024.149954

In a recent study, researchers introduced a nano-zerovalent copper biochar composite (nCu0-BC) as a practical solution for removing selenium oxyanions from water. Selenium, sourced from natural deposits and human activities, can become harmful in excess.

The nCu0-BC demonstrated substantial removal capacities, efficiently eliminating 98.96% of selenite [Se(IV)] and 98.78% of selenate [Se(VI)] in batch experiments. The study investigated the removal process, noting the reduction of Se oxyanions to Se(0) and the formation of stable complexes with nCu0-BC.

Considering real-world conditions, the research explored the impact of co-existing ions and heavy metals on removal efficiency. It also highlighted the limitations of existing water treatment methods, such as ion exchange and reverse osmosis.

In contrast to prior studies, this research utilized advanced characterization techniques and molecular simulations to understand the molecular-scale removal mechanism. The synthesis of nCu0-BC aimed to address challenges associated with pristine biochar and agglomeration of bare nano-zerovalent copper in water.

This study contributes valuable insights into a practical and cost-effective solution for selenium contamination in water. The nano-zerovalent copper biochar composite emerges as a promising candidate for large-scale water filtration, offering a potential advancement in the pursuit of clean and safe water resources.