Biochar Composite with Enhanced Performance Prepared Through Microbial Modification for Water Pollutant Removal

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Lignocellulosic biochar is a promising adsorbent, but its performance can be limited.
• Microbial modification offers a novel approach to enhance biochar properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize mycelial biochar composites with improved adsorption capabilities.
• To evaluate the adsorption performance of these composites for specific pollutants.

Main Methods:

• Microbial modification of lignocellulosic biochar to create BQH-AN and BQH-MV composites.
• Characterization of specific surface area and porosity.
• Adsorption experiments with rhodamine B, tetracycline hydrochloride, and Cr(VI).
• Assessment of regenerative ability through multiple reuse cycles.

Main Results:

• Mycelial biochar composites (BQH-AN, BQH-MV) exhibited significantly higher surface area and porosity than unmodified biochar (BQH).
• BQH-AN and BQH-MV demonstrated high adsorption capacities for rhodamine B, tetracycline hydrochloride, and Cr(VI), outperforming many existing biochar adsorbents.
• The composites retained over 69% removal efficiency after five reuse cycles, indicating excellent regenerability.

Conclusions:

• Microbial modification is an effective strategy to enhance the adsorption performance of lignocellulosic biochar.
• Mycelial biochar composites show great potential as sustainable and efficient adsorbents for water remediation.
• This research opens avenues for advanced biomass utilization in environmental applications.