Giving Biochar from Several Raw Materials to Reduce the Pollution of Heavy Metals CD in the Soil

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 121 views

Giving Biochar from Several Raw Materials to Reduce the Pollution of Heavy Metals CD in the Soil

Introduction

Heavy metal pollution in soil is a significant environmental concern that affects the health of ecosystems and human populations. Cadmium (CD) is one of the most toxic heavy metals that can contaminate soil through various human activities, including industrial processes and agricultural practices. The presence of heavy metals in soil can lead to soil degradation, reduced crop yields, and increased risk of human health problems. Therefore, it is essential to develop effective methods for reducing heavy metal pollution in soil.

The Role of Biochar in Soil Remediation

Biochar is a carbon-rich product produced through the pyrolysis of organic materials. It has been widely recognized as a valuable tool for improving soil quality and reducing environmental pollution. Biochar can be used to sequester carbon, improve soil fertility, and reduce the bioavailability of heavy metals in soil. In this study, we aim to investigate the effectiveness of biochar derived from different raw materials in reducing heavy metal pollution, particularly cadmium (CD), in soil.

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted in a laboratory using a non-factorial random design (RAL). The experiment consisted of a control treatment and three types of biochar derived from different raw materials: corn straw, rice straw, and oil palm empty bunches (TKKS). Each treatment was replicated five times. The parameters measured in this study included H2O pH, KCL pH, and CD levels extracted with DTPA.

Results

The results of this study showed that the three types of biochar can increase the pH of H2O and KCL. However, the CD levels extracted with DTPA experienced a significant decrease when using biochar from rice straw and TKKS, while biochar from corn straw did not show significant changes. From the results of the analysis, the biochar capacity to absorb heavy metals CD can be sorted from the largest to the smallest as follows: BioChar TKKS, BioChar Rice Straw, and BioChar Corn Straw.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that biochar derived from rice straw and TKKS has the potential to reduce heavy metal pollution in soil. The increased pH of the soil produced by biochar administration is also an important factor in the bioremediation process. Increased pH can change the chemical properties of the soil and make heavy metals more insoluble, thereby reducing their bioavailability for plants.

The structure of porosity and particle size of biochar is also an important factor in its ability to absorb heavy metals. Biochar with a more optimal structure and particle size can interact more effectively with metal ions, leading to increased adsorption capacity. In this study, the biochar from TKKS showed the best ability to absorb CDs, which may be due to its optimal structure and particle size.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the use of biochar as a method for remedying contaminated soil. The results suggest that biochar derived from local raw materials, such as rice straw and TKKS, can be an effective tool for reducing heavy metal pollution in soil. The use of biochar can also increase farmers' income through sustainable management of agricultural waste.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, we recommend the following:

Further research on the modification and optimization of the biochar manufacturing process to increase efficiency in reducing environmental pollution.
The use of local raw materials, such as rice straw and TKKS, for biochar production to promote sustainable agricultural practices and reduce environmental pollution.
The application of biochar in soil remediation to reduce heavy metal pollution and improve soil quality.

Future Directions

This study opens opportunities for further research on the use of biochar in soil remediation. Future studies can investigate the effects of biochar on other heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, and explore the potential of biochar in combination with other remediation techniques. Additionally, research on the modification and optimization of the biochar manufacturing process can help to increase its efficiency and effectiveness in reducing environmental pollution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of biochar derived from local raw materials in reducing heavy metal pollution in soil. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the use of biochar as a method for remedying contaminated soil and encourage the application of more sustainable agricultural practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Biochar and Heavy Metal Pollution

Q: What is biochar and how is it produced?

A: Biochar is a carbon-rich product produced through the pyrolysis of organic materials. It is created by heating organic materials, such as wood or agricultural waste, in the absence of oxygen, resulting in a stable and long-lasting carbon-rich material.

Q: How does biochar help reduce heavy metal pollution in soil?

A: Biochar can help reduce heavy metal pollution in soil by increasing the pH of the soil, making heavy metals more insoluble and reducing their bioavailability for plants. Additionally, biochar can adsorb heavy metals, reducing their concentration in the soil.

Q: What are the benefits of using biochar in soil remediation?

A: The benefits of using biochar in soil remediation include:

Reduced heavy metal pollution
Improved soil fertility
Increased crop yields
Reduced risk of human health problems
Promotes sustainable agricultural practices

Q: What types of raw materials can be used to produce biochar?

A: Various types of raw materials can be used to produce biochar, including:

Agricultural waste (e.g., corn straw, rice straw)
Wood waste
Municipal solid waste
Sewage sludge

Q: How does the structure and particle size of biochar affect its ability to absorb heavy metals?

A: The structure and particle size of biochar can affect its ability to absorb heavy metals. Biochar with a more optimal structure and particle size can interact more effectively with metal ions, leading to increased adsorption capacity.

Q: Can biochar be used in combination with other remediation techniques?

A: Yes, biochar can be used in combination with other remediation techniques, such as phytoremediation, to enhance its effectiveness in reducing heavy metal pollution.

Q: What are the potential risks associated with using biochar in soil remediation?

A: The potential risks associated with using biochar in soil remediation include:

Increased soil pH, which can affect soil microorganisms and plant growth
Potential for biochar to leach heavy metals into groundwater
Limited understanding of long-term effects of biochar on soil ecosystems

Q: How can biochar be applied in soil remediation?

A: Biochar can be applied in soil remediation through various methods, including:

Mixing biochar with soil amendments
Applying biochar as a top dressing
Incorporating biochar into soil through tillage

Q: What are the future directions for research on biochar and heavy metal pollution?

A: Future research directions for biochar and heavy metal pollution include:

Investigating the effects of biochar on other heavy metals, such as lead and mercury
Exploring the potential of biochar in combination with other remediation techniques
Developing more efficient and cost-effective methods for producing biochar
Investigating the long-term effects of biochar on soil ecosystems.