Adsorption characteristics of selective nitrogen species on biochar in aqueous solution
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
This research delves into the comprehensive study of biochar synthesis and characterization, utilizing diverse biomass sources, including corn stover, wheat straw, pine, and poplar. In Chapter 3, the focus is on the pyrolysis of these biomasses under varied conditions, investigating the resulting biochar and biomass through a range of analytical techniques such as proximate and ultimate analysis, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, specific surface area analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and X-ray fluorescence. The exploration aims to unravel the intricate relationship between physical and chemical properties, providing insights into tailoring biochar with specific design properties for customized applications. ☐ In Chapter 4, the research shifts its focus to addressing water contamination by urea, a prevalent issue in wastewater effluents from industrial chemical synthesis and fertilizer administration. Four types of biochar—pine wood, oak wood, bamboo, and coconut shell—are meticulously prepared, characterized, and studied for their efficacy in urea removal from aqueous solutions. Characterization includes an assessment of surface properties through specific surface area analysis (BET), surface charge (zeta potential). The study reveals pH as a critical factor influencing urea adsorption, with superior adsorption capacity observed at acidic pH. Pine biochar emerges as the most effective urea adsorbent, attributed to its greater active surface sites. Chemical adsorption, rather than electrostatic interaction, is identified as the predominant mechanism in urea adsorption. The findings position biochar as a promising adsorbent for treating water contaminated by urea. ☐ Chapter 5 extends the investigation to the adsorption behavior of 2-, 3-, and 4-nitrophenol onto pine biochar. The pH is manipulated as the master variable, considering ionic strength, and employing model fitting with Langmuir isotherm. The exploration provides a nuanced understanding of the adsorption mechanisms and behaviors of different nitrophenol isomers. ☐ In Chapter 6, the research delves into ammonium adsorption onto pine biochar, again employing pH as the master variable and considering ionic strength, kinetics, and cation competition. This section of the study seeks to comprehensively comprehend the interaction between pine biochar and ammonia, offering insights into the potential application of pine biochar as an effective adsorbent. ☐ Collectively, these chapters contribute to a holistic exploration of biochar synthesis, characterization, and its diverse applications, ranging from urea to nitrophenol and ammonia adsorption. The insights gained pave the way for tailored biochar applications in addressing water contamination challenges.
Description
Keywords
Adsorption, Biochar, Characterization, Nitrophemol, Surface chemistry, Urea