Effective wastewater treatment is a growing challenge, especially for industries like river snail rice noodle production, which generates high-organic, grease-rich wastewater. A recent study explored the potential of coconut shell biochar and coke to improve anaerobic digestion, a method that converts organic matter into biogas.

The research demonstrated that adding coconut shell biochar and coke to anaerobic reactors significantly increased the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency. With biochar, COD removal reached 94.02% at a 24-hour hydraulic retention time (HRT), compared to 88.68% with coke. Even at a shorter 12-hour HRT, both materials maintained high performance.

These materials also enhanced microbial activity and diversity. Biochar promoted the growth of Methanothrix, a key methane-producing microorganism, while both biochar and coke increased the abundance of Euryarchaeota, Proteobacteria, and Chloroflexi. Additionally, biochar stimulated enzymes like coenzyme F420 and protease, which are vital for organic matter breakdown.

On a molecular level, both materials upregulated genes involved in glycolysis and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, boosting the metabolic pathways critical for methane production. Biochar’s high porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More and adsorption capacity also helped buffer the anaerobic system, reducing inhibitory substances like capsaicin from chili oil.

The study highlights that while biochar is costlier, its superior efficiency makes it ideal for challenging wastewater. Coke, being more affordable, can be a practical alternative depending on treatment goals. This research paves the way for optimizing industrial wastewater management using sustainable materials.