Innovative Algae Solution for Microplastic Removal

Researchers developed a method using filamentous algae and its magnetic biochar to remove microplastics from water. This eco-friendly approach leverages algae’s natural trapping ability and biochar’s enhanced adsorption capacity, offering a sustainable solution to microplastic pollution in urban water systems.

May 15, 2024

1–2 minutes

Li, et al (2024) Effective removal of microplastics by filamentous algae and its 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: Performance and mechanism. *Chemosphere.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142152

Researchers have developed a promising solution for microplastic (MP) pollution, leveraging filamentous algae and its magnetic biochar derivative. This eco-friendly approach, detailed in a recent Chemosphere study, offers a dual-benefit system by tackling algae blooms and MP pollution simultaneously in urban water systems.

Filamentous algae, commonly associated with nutrient-rich water bodies, have shown a natural propensity to entangle, adhere to, and encapsulate MPs. This interaction enables the algae to accumulate an average of 14.1 ± 5 items of MPs per gram of dry weight. Building on this natural affinity, researchers have innovated a method to convert algal waste into a powerful adsorbent through the synthesis of magnetic filamentous algae biochar.

This novel biochar is enhanced with Fe3O4, utilizing a hydrothermal method to boost its MP capture efficiency. Advanced analytical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, have characterized the biochar’s superior structural and chemical properties.

Experimental studies focused on adsorption kinetics and isotherms reveal that this magnetic biochar can reach theoretical maximum adsorption capacities significantly higher than traditional biochars—215.58 mg/g for polystyrene MPs. Notably, the magnetic properties of the biochar facilitate easy recovery and reuse, demonstrating effective MP removal in up to five cycles of use.

This research not only highlights the practical application of algae in environmental remediation but also introduces a sustainable strategy for managing algal biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More. The introduction of magnetic filamentous algae biochar represents a significant step forward in addressing the pervasive issue of MPs in aquatic environments, offering a replicable, effective, and sustainable solution.