Summary
Abstract Biochar shows significant potential to serve as a globally applicable material to remediate water and soil owing to the extensive availability of feedstocks and conducive physio-chemical surface characteristics. This review aims to highlight biochar production technologies, characteristics of biochar, and the latest advancements in immobilizing and eliminating heavy metal ions and organic pollutants in soil and water. Pyrolysis temperature, heat transfer rate, residence time, and type of feedstock are critical influential parameters. Biochar’s efficacy in managing contaminants relies on the pore size distribution, surface groups, and ion-exchange capacity. The molecular composition and physical architecture of biochar may be crucial when practically applied to water and soil. In g
Regional applicability
The review addresses globally applicable biochar production and contaminant remediation principles without geographic specificity. Findings are transferable to United Kingdom agricultural and environmental contexts, particularly for remediating contaminated soils and water; adoption would depend on local feedstock availability, regulatory approval, and cost-effectiveness relative to existing remediation methods.
Key measures
Pyrolysis temperature, heat transfer rate, residence time, feedstock type, pore size distribution, surface groups, ion-exchange capacity, surface area, hydrophobicity, microporosity
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises biochar production technologies, characteristics, and advancements in immobilising and eliminating heavy metal ions and organic pollutants from soil and water. It identifies how pyrolysis temperature, feedstock type, pore size distribution, and surface functional groups influence contaminant removal efficacy.
Topic tags
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