Researchers have developed a biochar-based polymeric film for the preconcentration of steroid hormones in environmental waters and wastewaters. This innovative method, described in Analytica Chimica Acta, incorporates wood-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 into cellulose triacetate membranes, creating a sustainable and efficient thin-film microextraction phase.

The study aimed to minimize environmental impact by using renewable, low-cost materials and simplifying the extraction process. Biochar, produced from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More waste, was chosen for its availability and effectiveness in sorbing contaminants. The polymeric membrane acts as a support, enhancing the biochar’s sorptive properties.

Researchers tested various biochar concentrations (4%, 10%, 16% by weight) and synthesis setups, selecting a 10% biochar composition with a ceramic 3D mold for optimal performance. The final microextraction method, followed by HPLC-MS/MS quantification, was validated with river and wastewater samples. It demonstrated high accuracy, sensitivity, and robustness, effectively detecting steroid hormones at low concentrations (0.2–8.5 ng/L).

The method’s greenness was evaluated using the latest green metrics, confirming its sustainability. This novel approach highlights the potential of biochar-based polymeric films in environmental analysis, providing a green alternative for detecting steroid hormones and other contaminants in water. The study aligns with Green Analytical Chemistry principles, promoting miniaturized sample treatment and the use of renewable materials, contributing to sustainable development goals.