Sustainable Management of Phenol in Water Using Rice Straw-Derived Biochar

This study investigates using rice straw-derived biochar for sustainable phenol removal from water. Achieving 97% removal efficiency, the biochar demonstrates cost-effectiveness and addresses environmental concerns, providing a viable alternative to traditional adsorbents in industrial wastewater treatment.

March 1, 2024

1–2 minutes

Bhatia & Saroha (2024) 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 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 of rice straw as an adsorbent for removal of phenol from water. *Journal of Water Process Engineering.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2024.105003

Rice straw, a significant agricultural residue in Northern India, is often burned, leading to environmental issues. This study explores the conversion of rice straw into biochar as an effective, sustainable adsorbent for removing phenol from water. Chemically treated and pyrolyzed rice straw biochar exhibited a 97% phenol removal efficiency from industrial wastewater. Response surface optimization identified key parameters, with a maximum removal efficiency of 96% achieved at an adsorbent dosage of 1.25 g/L in 60 minutes.

The study revealed that H-bonding and π-π interactions between phenol molecules and the adsorbent surface were crucial mechanisms. Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetics indicated monolayer chemisorption dominated the process, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 107.466 mg/g.

Fixed bed column studies confirmed the efficiency of the biochar, and regeneration studies demonstrated suitability for eight adsorption cycles. The study addressed gaps in continuous operation and regeneration techniques, providing practical insights.

Batch and column adsorption studies in industrial wastewater demonstrated a remarkable 97% phenol removal efficiency. The estimated cost of treatment was found to be $1.885/m3 of water, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of the proposed method.

This research presents a sustainable approach to manage rice straw by converting it into biochar for efficient phenol removal. The study not only provides an alternative to commercial 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 but also adds value to discarded agricultural waste. The findings contribute to addressing environmental and health hazards associated with phenol contamination in water, showcasing the potential of biochar as a green and economical adsorbent.