Green Synthesis Unleashes the Power of Magnetic Biochar in Tackling Chromium Pollution

This study explores the potential of green-synthesized magnetic biochar (GSMB) for efficient hexavalent chromium removal. Using white tea residue, researchers optimized GSMFe content, enhancing adsorption capacity. Site energy distribution analysis revealed improved sorption behavior, showcasing GSMB’s promise for eco-friendly water remediation in the face of chromium pollution.

February 22, 2024

1–2 minutes

Zhang, Reguyal, & Sarmah (2024) Effect of iron nanoparticles on chromium adsorption in aqueous solution using magnetic 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: A site energy distribution analysis. *Environmental Pollution.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123593

Chromium contamination in water sources poses a serious threat to human health, with industries contributing significantly to its release. The study explores the potential of green-synthesized magnetic biochar (GSMB) to efficiently remove hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)], a highly toxic form of chromium.

The researchers employed a green synthesis technique, using white tea residue to introduce magnetic iron-containing nanoparticles (GSMFe) into biochar. The resulting GSMB exhibited enhanced adsorption capacity and saturation magnetization compared to traditional methods. With increasing GSMFe content, the maximum adsorption capacity soared from 2.47 mg/g to 9.11 mg/g, making GSMB4 a promising choice.

Crucially, the study explored the sorption behavior using site energy distribution (SED) analysis, revealing that GSMFe increased the frequency of sorption energy sites across the range. The biochar matrix contributed to a slight rise in medium sorption energy sites. At lower energy sites, the GSMBs exhibited pronounced differences, with GSMB2 emerging as a practical choice for concentrations below 50 mg/L.

The research emphasizes the urgent need for chromium remediation, introduces the concept of magnetic biochar, and highlights the advantages of green synthesis in enhancing functionality and biocompatibility. However, it underscores the importance of finding the optimal GSMFe-to-biochar ratio to avoid aggregation issues.

Moreover, the study touches upon the complexities of green synthesis, which introduces a more diverse composition, impacting magnetic capacity and adsorption. The site energy distribution theory is introduced as a valuable tool, providing a deeper understanding of adsorption surfaces compared to traditional isotherm studies.

In conclusion, the study showcases the potential of GSMB in tackling chromium pollution and emphasizes the importance of site energy distribution analysis for a comprehensive understanding. As industries seek eco-friendly solutions, green-synthesized magnetic biochar emerges as a promising candidate for effective water remediation.