Local Materials for Sustainable Water Treatment: Biochar and Activated Carbon Perspectives

This comprehensive review explores the use of locally sourced biochar (BC) and activated carbon (AC) for sustainable drinking water treatment. Examining their properties, mechanisms, and economic viability, the study addresses the imperative of achieving sustainable development goals, providing valuable insights for researchers and policymakers tackling global water challenges.

March 4, 2024

1–2 minutes

Nidheesh, Kumar, et al (2024) Conversion of locally available materials to 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 activated carbonActivated carbon is a form of carbon that has been processed to create a vast network of tiny pores, increasing its surface area significantly. This extensive surface area makes activated carbon exceptionally effective at trapping and holding impurities, like a molecular sponge. It is commonly More for drinking water treatment. *Chemosphere.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141566

This comprehensive review delves into the critical aspects of utilizing locally available materials for the treatment of drinking water, aligning with the imperative of achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Focused on the cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach, the study extensively explores the application of biochar (BC) and activated carbon (AC) derived from indigenous feedstocks. The research emphasizes the significance of addressing water contamination challenges through materials that are both affordable and locally sourced.

The review elucidates the properties of BC and AC, highlighting their unique physical and chemical characteristics, such as high specific surface area, 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, cation exchange capacity, and adsorption capabilities. The discussion extends to the mechanisms involved in removing diverse pollutants from drinking water, encompassing organic and inorganic contaminants. Particularly noteworthy is the exploration of complexation, co-precipitation, electrostatic interaction, and ion exchange as key sorption mechanisms in the adsorption process.

Furthermore, the study ventures into the development of BC and AC-based household treatment units, underlining their economic viability. The authors critically assess the limitations and obstacles associated with the widespread adoption of locally available materials for water treatment, emphasizing the need for technological interventions. The research acknowledges the global water challenges, underscoring the relevance of innovative, adaptable, and locally applicable technologies to meet SDG 6 by 2030.

In addition to summarizing existing literature on various adsorbents, including metal-organic frameworks and lignocellulosic materials, the review identifies a gap in knowledge—no comprehensive discussion on the effective utilization of locally available materials like BC and AC in one consolidated source. Therefore, this work fills that void, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in advancing sustainable solutions for providing safe drinking water globally.