Mahmoud Samy, Ahmed Tawfik, Ahmed I. Osman, Ribh S. Abodlal, Ali El-Dissouky, Tarek E. Khalil, Ehab El-Helow, and Mohamed Gar Alalm (2024) Novel Approach to Photocatalytic Removal of Linezolid by Advanced Nano-Biochar/Bismuth Oxychloride Hybrid. ACS Omega. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.4c04007

The increasing presence of pharmaceutical contaminants in water bodies, particularly antibiotics like linezolid (LIN), poses significant threats to both human health and the environment. Traditional wastewater treatment methods often fall short in effectively removing these persistent pollutants, necessitating the development of more advanced and sustainable solutions. Recent research introduces a novel approach utilizing a hybrid material composed of 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 derived from Corchorus olitorius and bismuth oxychloride (Bi(_{12})O(_{17})Cl(_2)). This hybrid material has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in degrading LIN when used in a solar photoreactor, showcasing its potential as a cost-effective and sustainable solution for advanced wastewater treatment.

Biochar, known for its high surface area and 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, is widely used in environmental remediation processes. Bismuth oxychloride, on the other hand, is recognized for its stability, non-toxicity, and ability to absorb visible light. However, both materials have limitations when used independently. Biochar alone has limited photocatalytic activity, while bismuth oxychloride suffers from rapid recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, reducing its efficiency. The innovative combination of these two materials forms a heterojunction photocatalyst that leverages the strengths of both components, resulting in enhanced photocatalytic performance.

In experimental studies, the biochar/Bi(_{12})O(_{17})Cl(_2) hybrid achieved an impressive 82.6% degradation efficiency for LIN, along with significant reductions in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) levels, reaching 81.3% and 75.8% respectively. These results were obtained using an optimal composite dose of 125 mg/L at a pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More of 4.3, within three hours of solar irradiation. The hybrid material also demonstrated stability across five cycles of use, maintaining a degradation efficiency close to 77.9% in the fifth cycle. This durability indicates its potential for repeated applications, enhancing its viability as a long-term solution for water treatment.

The mechanism behind the hybrid’s superior performance lies in its ability to effectively separate charge carriers. The biochar component acts as an electron acceptor, reducing the recombination rate of electron-hole pairs generated by the bismuth oxychloride under light irradiation. This improved separation enhances the generation of reactive radicals, which are crucial for the degradation of pollutants. The high surface area of the biochar also boosts the hybrid’s adsorption capacity, further contributing to its efficacy.

Additionally, the study delved into the degradation pathways of LIN, revealing that the pollutant undergoes a series of transformations, ultimately breaking down into simpler compounds. This comprehensive understanding of the degradation process not only underscores the effectiveness of the hybrid material but also provides insights into its potential environmental impact.

In conclusion, the biochar/Bi(_{12})O(_{17})Cl(_2) hybrid material represents a significant advancement in the field of photocatalytic water treatment. By combining the unique properties of biochar and bismuth oxychloride, this hybrid material offers a sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective solution for removing persistent pharmaceutical contaminants from water. The promising results of this study highlight the potential of nanotechnology and advanced materials in addressing critical environmental challenges, paving the way for cleaner water and a healthier ecosystem.