Enhancing 1,2-Dichloroethane Degradation via Biochar-Assisted Anaerobic Reactor: A Techno-Economic Analysis

This study investigates enhancing 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA) degradation in anaerobic conditions using biochar supplementation. Results show significant improvement in dechlorination and biogas yield. Techno-economic analysis reveals cost-effective treatment options, highlighting the potential of biochar-assisted anaerobic digestion for sustainable wastewater remediation.

March 22, 2024

1–2 minutes

Hasanan, Badr, et al (2024) Biochar-enhanced anaerobic mixed culture for biodegradation of 1,2-dichloroethane: Microbial community, mechanisms, and techno-economics. *Chemosphere.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141666

In the quest for effective and sustainable wastewater treatment solutions, researchers have explored the potential of anaerobic digestion (AD) for chlorinated hydrocarbon degradation. However, challenges such as volatile fatty acids accumulation and limited substrate-microbe interaction have hindered optimal performance. Addressing these concerns, a recent study introduced agricultural waste-based 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 into the digestion process, enhancing microbial capacities for degrading 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA).

1,2-DCA, a hazardous compound prevalent in various industries, poses significant environmental and health risks. By employing a multi-chamber anaerobic reactor (MAR) supplemented with biochar, researchers achieved notable improvements in dechlorination and biogas yield. The addition of biochar enhanced enzyme activities, fostering the dominance of microbial communities crucial for 1,2-DCA degradation.

The study elucidated the microbial pathways involved in 1,2-DCA degradation, with metabolite by-products including chloride, ethylene glycol, and acetate. Through experimentation with varying biochar dosages and 1,2-DCA concentrations, the synergistic effect of biochar-assisted degradation was validated.

Notably, the techno-economic assessment revealed promising results, with the cost of treating 1,2-DCA-laden discharge estimated at 0.83 USD/m3, accompanied by a reasonable payback period. Profits derived from pollution reduction, biogas selling, and carbon credit further underscored the economic viability of the approach.

Overall, this innovative study showcases the potential of biochar-assisted AD systems for efficient and cost-effective degradation of chlorinated hydrocarbons, offering a promising avenue for sustainable wastewater treatment and environmental protection.