In an era where heavy metal pollution, specifically chromium (Cr), poses significant risks to ecological environments and food safety, innovative solutions are imperative. The introduction of iron oxide phosphoric acid-loaded activated biochar (HFBC) marks a pivotal advancement in combating these environmental challenges. Synthesized through a meticulous process of pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More, HFBC emerges as a beacon of hope, characterized by its greater microporosity and fewer impurities, thereby enhancing the efficiency of chromium remediation processes.

The research underscores the application of HFBC in significantly increasing soil 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 and cation exchange capacity (CEC), alongside a marked reduction in available chromium levels. Through a series of comprehensive analytical techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), alongside adsorption studies, the study elucidates the Cr removal mechanism. It reveals the conversion of available Cr to a passivated state through adsorption, with HFBC showcasing an optimal chromium (VI) adsorption capacity of 55.5 mg/g under specific conditions.

Pot experiments with cabbage further illustrate the material’s effectiveness, evidencing not only soil quality improvement but also a boost in plant growth and a decrease in chromium accumulation within the plant tissues. This dual benefit of environmental remediation and agricultural enhancement underscores HFBC’s potential as a highly valuable tool in the domain of heavy metal pollution management.

Conclusively, the study presents HFBC as a cost-effective and efficient solution for chromium removal from both aqueous solutions and soil. With its promise of enhanced environmental sustainability and food safety, HFBC positions itself as a pivotal development in the realm of environmental remediation technologies.