Alginate-modified biochar derived from Ca(II)-impregnated biomass: Excellent anti-interference ability for Pb(II) removal

A novel biochar modified with sodium alginate was prepared using Ca(II)-impregnated biomass, and used to remove metals from aqueous solutions. The maximum adsorption capacity for Pb(II) was estimated to be 1.225 mmol/g (253.6 mg/g), which is far more than that of most adsorbents. Moreover, the modified biochar had a great anti-interference ability for effective removal of Pb(II) from multi-metal system. The biochar still had strong ability to adsorb Pb(II) when the initial concentrations of interfering ions were 5 times higher than that of Pb(II). Functional groups and minerals of the biochar worked for Pb(II) removal and the anti-interference ability. On the one hand, carboxyl could complex with Pb(II) through monodentate and bidentate bridging; on the other hand, Pb(II) was easier to form a precipitate with minerals than other metals. This study suggested that the novel biochar had the potential for practical application in effective removal of Pb(II) from wastewater.