Ago, et al (2024) Vortex-assisted dispersive micro-solid-phase extraction using silica-supported Fe₂O₃-modified khat (Catha edulis) 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 nanocomposite followed by GC-MS for the determination of organochlorine pesticides in juice samples. Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part B. https://doi.org/10.1080/03601234.2024.2336572

A recent study has introduced a novel method for extracting and preconcentrating organochlorine pesticide residues from juice samples. The technique, known as dispersive micro-solid phase extraction, uses a unique sorbent material made from a silica-supported Fe2O3-modified biochar derived from khat leftovers (SiO2-Fe2O3-KLBNC). This innovative sorbent enhances the extraction process and is dispersed in the solution using a vortex mixer.

Researchers optimized various experimental parameters to ensure the method’s efficiency. Under optimal conditions, the technique demonstrated excellent performance, with linear dynamic ranges between 0.003 to 100.0 ng/mL and a high correlation coefficient (r² ≥ 0.9981). Detection and quantification limits were impressively low, ranging from 0.001 to 0.006 ng/mL and 0.003 to 0.020 ng/mL, respectively.

The method showed robust precision, with intra-day and inter-day variations between 0.3–4.8% and 1.7–5.2%, respectively. Extraction recoveries were also favorable, ranging from 83.4–108.3%. This suggests the method’s reliability and reproducibility.

One of the most significant aspects of this technique is its use of khat leftover biochar as an adsorbent. This material offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to expensive traditional adsorbents, making the method particularly advantageous for resource-constrained regions. As a result, it holds promise for widespread adoption in future pesticide residue analysis.

This study highlights the potential of using waste-derived materials in scientific applications, providing an economical and eco-friendly solution for monitoring pesticide contamination in food products.