Competitive or synergetic? Adsorption mechanism of phosphate and oxytetracycline on chestnut shell-derived biochar

In the present study, the potential competitive or synergetic adsorption mechanism of phosphate and antibiotics from a solution using chestnut shell (CS)-derived biochar was explored. CSs were utilized as the raw material to prepare biochar (BC CS ) and modified biochar (MBC CS ) via an oxygen-isolated pyrolysis, and subsequent modification using KMnO 4 and FeCl 3 . Following the carbonization , the biochar was deoxidized, which enhanced its porous structure and specific surface area. The MBC CS , which contained Fe and Mn ions on its surfaces, showed theoretical adsorption capacities of 0.7880 mg/g P and 6.2854 mg/g oxytetracycline (OTC), respectively. The adsorption of both PO 4 3− and OTC by the MBC CS fitted better to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model . The PO 4 3− adsorption on the MBC CS fitted better to the Langmuir isotherm , whereas that of the OTC was adequately described via the Freundlich isotherm. The adsorption processes were both endothermic. The pH and cation strength of the solution significantly affected the adsorption of both PO 4 3− and OTC. Low concentrations of OTC favored competitive adsorption with PO 4 3− , while high concentrations of both components produced synergetic adsorption on the MBC CS . In the present study, a potential method with good reusability for the utilization of agricultural and forestry wastes is highlighted. The results also provide a scientific basis for elucidating the adsorption mechanisms of coexisting pollutants in water on biochar. • Biochar was modified through pyrolysis & doping with Fe and Mn from chestnut shells. • Biochar showed high adsorption for PO 4 3− and oxytetracycline from wastewater. • High concentrations of both components produce synergetic adsorption on modified biochar. • Phosphate was mainly adsorbed through charge neutralization. • Oxytetracycline was removed via ion exchange reactions.