Abodlal, et al (2024) Purification of pesticide-rich wastewater 2,6-dichlorophenol in solar photo-oxidation reactor with visible light. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-3481624/v1

2,6-Dichlorophenol (2,6-DCP) is a hazardous compound extensively utilized in various industrial processes, particularly in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors. Recognized for its toxicity, mutagenicity, and potential carcinogenicity, 2,6-DCP poses serious environmental and health risks, necessitating effective wastewater treatment strategies.

Conventional wastewater treatments often fall short in addressing the challenges posed by 2,6-DCP, leading to the exploration of advanced oxidation processes. A recent study has highlighted a novel approach that leverages solar photo-oxidation combined with 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 and bismuth chloride to enhance the degradation of 2,6-DCP in herbicide wastewater.

This method utilizes a composite made from biochar and bismuth chloride (Bi12O17Cl2) to capitalize on the dual benefits of adsorption and degradation. The interaction between biochar and Bi12O17Cl2 creates a synergetic effect, enhancing the photocatalytic performance through increased active sites and reduced particle size. This results in significant reductions in 2,6-DCP concentration, from 122 mg/L to 17 mg/L within just six hours, achieving an 86% removal efficiency.

Moreover, the process demonstrates economic viability, costing approximately $10.30 per cubic meter of treated wastewater. The use of biochar not only enhances the adsorption of 2,6-DCP but also facilitates the generation of reactive oxygen species, crucial for breaking down the compound’s resistant chemical structure. This advanced oxidation process leads to the cleavage of C-Cl bonds in 2,6-DCP, transforming it into less harmful compounds like phenols and dechlorinated products.

The findings suggest that integrating biochar with bismuth-based photocatalysts offers a promising, cost-effective solution for treating 2,6-DCP laden wastewater, potentially revolutionizing industrial wastewater management by mitigating environmental and health impacts efficiently and sustainably.