Cutting edge advancements in biochar applications: bridging environmental remediation through adsorption and photocatalysis

The contamination of the environment with toxins from both organic and inorganic resources has instigated numerous hazardous complications in plants and animals since the commencement of the industrial era. Many hazardous organics are very stable in both soil and water and can persist in the environment for a long time. The removal of these toxins is crucial because they are harmful. Biochar, as a low-cost material, is exceptionally useful in the purification and removal of hazardous materials. Herein, we discuss the role of biochar in the removal of hazardous materials from water. The adsorptive and photocatalytic removal of organic and inorganic contaminants, heavy metals, radioactive materials, antibiotics, phosphates and nitrates are discussed in detail. The mechanisms of adsorptive and photocatalytic removal of toxins are highlighted with suitable examples. The characteristics of biochar in light harvesting, charge utilization and adsorption of pollutants due to their porous nature, large surface area, and huge pore volumes are elaborated in detail. We believe that this article will attract substantial attention in the application of biochar for environmental remediation.