A new study explores how integrating 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 iron-based chemical conditioning can simultaneously improve sludge dewaterability and degrade antibiotics, addressing long-standing environmental challenges in wastewater treatment. Traditional chemical conditioning relies on reactive oxygen species (ROS) to break down extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in sludge, enabling water removal. However, these methods often deplete ROS quickly, generate excess iron sludge, and struggle to effectively degrade antibiotics.

The research proposes using biochar with Fe(II) to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS). This innovative approach reduces the bound water content in sludge and increases the degradation rate of the antibiotic sulfamethoxazole (SMX) by nearly threefold compared to conventional methods. Mechanisms behind this improvement include biochar’s ability to elevate the Fe(II)/Fe(III) ratio, increasing ROS production. Biochar also enhances sludge dewatering by modifying its surface properties, such as zeta potential and hydrophobicity, promoting particle granulation.

Furthermore, biochar’s porous structure enriches SMX concentrations on its surface, optimizing the interaction with ROS for more targeted degradation. This minimizes ineffective ROS consumption and improves overall treatment efficiency.

This study highlights biochar’s multifunctional role in modulating iron oxidation states and reaction sites, making it a promising additive for environmentally friendly wastewater treatment. The findings pave the way for more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable sludge management practices while addressing the pressing issue of antibiotic contamination.