Biochar technology in environmental engineering: biochar for contaminant degradation and as biofilm carrier for improved nitrification in activated sludge

Abstract

Global industrialization and the developing climate crisis continue to jeopardize Earth’s water resources, intensifying the need for sustainable remediation and wastewater treatment technologies. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from biomass, has gained attention in environmental engineering applications for its low-cost production, carbon sequestration capabilities, and versatile applications. Recent research highlights biochar's potential to enhance remediation of environmental contaminants, mediated by its sorption capabilities and electrical conductivity (EC) and electron exchange capacity (EEC). This thesis explores the properties and processes of biochar that support contaminant transformations, emphasizing its application for degrading halogenated organic compounds in a comprehensive literature review (Chapter 2). Additionally, biochar's potential as a biofilm carrier for supporting nitrification in aerobic activated sludge is investigated (Chapter 3), representing a novel contribution to biochar-enhanced biological nutrient removal. Together, this work advances biochar technology for environmental remediation and wastewater treatment, offering innovative solutions to protect Earth's water resources. Chapter 4 addresses critical knowledge gaps regarding virus partitioning and degradation in activated sludge, providing insights into the fate of enteric viruses during wastewater treatment.