Development of a novel pyrite/biochar composite (BM-FeS2@BC) by ball milling for aqueous Cr(VI) removal and its mechanisms

In recent years, many studies have been devoted to investigate the application of biochar for pollutants removal from aqueous solutions. Biochar exhibits a great potential to efficiently tackle water contaminants considering the wide availability of feedstock, low-cost and favorable physical/chemical surface characteristics. This review provides an overview of biochar production technologies, biochar properties, and recent advances in the removal of heavy metals, organic pollutants and other inorganic pollutants using biochar. Experimental studies related to the adsorption behaviors of biochar toward various contaminants, key affecting factors and the underlying mechanisms proposed to explain the adsorption behaviors, have been comprehensively reviewed. Furthermore, research gaps and uncertainties that exist in the use of biochar as an adsorbent are identified. Further research needs for biochar and potential areas for future application of biochars are also proposed.

In recent years, with the continuous development of industry and agriculture, the content of organic pollutants in the environment has been increasing, which has caused serious pollution to the environment. Adsorption has proven to be an effective and economically viable method of removing organic contaminants. Since biochar has many advantages such as various types of raw materials, low cost, and recyclability, it can achieve the effect of turning waste into treasure when used for environmental treatment. This paper summarizes the source and production of biochar, points out its research status in the removal of organic pollutants, expounds its adsorption mechanism on organic pollutants, introduces the relevant adsorption parameters, summarizes its regeneration methods, studies its application of engineering, and finally analyses of benefits and describes the development prospects.