Research progress on biochar materials for new pollutants removal in the aquatic environment: a mini-review

Abstract

Antibiotics, endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and microplastics (MPs) are crucial constituents of the pollutants frequently detected in various aquatic environments. These pollutants can negatively affect human health and aquatic organisms. To eliminate these new pollutants from water economically and environmentally, biochar is considered an efficient environmental functional material because of its excellent performance. Although numerous studies have reported the concentration, distribution, and removal methods of individual new pollutants, a comprehensive and systematic understanding of biochar-based materials for the removal of multiple new pollutants from aquatic environments remains to be comprehensively explored. Therefore, in this mini-review, recent research progress on biochar materials in the decontamination of new pollutants, including antibiotics, EDCs, PFAS, and MPs in different water sources, is summarized, and different mechanisms and influencing factors during the removal process are discussed to have a profound understanding of the application of biochar in the water environment. Future studies on biochar materials for the removal of new pollutants are indicated to enlighten future exploration and alleviate new pollutant burdens in aquatic environments.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Biochar materials / New pollutants / Aquatic environment pollution / Removal mechanisms

Highlight

	● Recent research progress of biochar for new pollutants removal is summarized.
	● Adsorption and PS-based AOPs are main pathways of biochar to remove pollutants.
	● Some valuable research points to enlighten future study on biochar are recommended.

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