Zhang, X., Gong, Z., Chen, X. et al. Enhanced removal of antibiotics and heavy metals in aquatic systems using spent mushroom substrate-derived 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 integrated with Herbaspirillum huttiense. Environ Sci Pollut Res(2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-024-34192-y

A new strategy has been developed to effectively remove copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), oxytetracycline (OTC), and enrofloxacin (ENR) from water. Researchers explored the combined use of spent mushroom substrate (SMSB) and the Herbaspirillum huttiense strain (HHS1). The SMSB-HHS1 composite showed significant removal capabilities: 29.86% of Cu, 49.75% of Zn, 97.95% of OTC, and 59.35% of ENR.

The study found that chemisorption and biodegradation were key mechanisms. Cu and Zn acted as bridging agents, enhancing OTC and ENR adsorption, while OTC and ENR interfered with Cu adsorption. Functional groups ‒OH and C–O–C in SMSB played critical roles in the process. Additionally, HHS1 boosted antibiotic removal by breaking down contaminants.

This research highlights the potential of SMSB-HHS1 composites to provide a sustainable solution to complex pollution in aquatic environments.