Biochar applications for efficient removal of energetic compound contaminants

Chemosphere. 2024 Sep:364:143135. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143135. Epub 2024 Aug 19.

Abstract

Military activities and the production or disposal of ammunition often lead to soil contamination with energetic compounds (ECs) such as dinitrotoluene, trinitrotoluene, and hexogen, posing significant threats to human health and the ecosystem. Biochar has emerged as a cost-effective and widely available solution for remediating contaminated sites characterized by its capacity for pollutant removal through adsorption and conversion process, along with minimal secondary pollution. This paper provides a comprehensive review of relevant literature on biochar's efficacy in eliminating ECs, including an analysis of the underlying mechanisms. The discussion addresses challenges and opportunities associated with biochar application in ECs remediation, offering insights for future research directions. In summary, the use of biochar for ECs removal presents a promising and eco-friendly approach, facilitating the remediation of contaminated sites while promoting soil function and ecosystem recovery.

Keywords: Adsorption; Biochar; Chemical conversion; Energetic compounds; Site remediation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Charcoal* / chemistry
  • Dinitrobenzenes / chemistry
  • Environmental Restoration and Remediation* / methods
  • Explosive Agents / chemistry
  • Soil / chemistry
  • Soil Pollutants* / analysis
  • Trinitrotoluene / chemistry

Substances

  • Charcoal
  • biochar
  • Soil Pollutants
  • Trinitrotoluene
  • Soil
  • Explosive Agents
  • Dinitrobenzenes