Synthesis and characterization of coconut coir biochar as potential adsorbent for removal of pharmaceutical and personal care products in wastewater

Abstract

Biochar, a solid by-product of pyrolysis has attracted the attention of researchers because of it properties which is suitable for use as an adsorbent as well as energy source. As an adsorbent, biochar has similar properties to activated carbon which has high surface area, large pore volume, environmental stability, generous functional group, and high resource recovery. On the other hand, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products (PPCPs) – a class of growing environmental contaminants, are increasing public concerns for their possible effects on the ecosystem and human health. Some PPCPs are pervasive, persistent, and bioaccumulative which thus makes them easily found and currently increase in the environment, including groundwater and surface water. The main source of surface water contamination with PPCPs is due to municipal wastewater discharge that has not been adequately treated. Furthermore, due to coconut coir having a significant amount of lignin, it may be thermochemically converted into biochar with a high yield, meeting the requirements for biochar and its use in the adsorption process. This study aims to synthesize biochar from coconut coir, characterize it and determine its potential as an adsorbent for PPCPs. The biochar used for this study were characterized based on their chemical, structural and textural characteristics. The study that demonstrated good results on the adsorption of paracetamol from the aqueous phase of biochar has the potential to eliminate this pollutant by around 92%.