Investigating the potential of mineral precipitation in co-pyrolysis biochar: Development of a novel Cd (II) adsorption material utilizing dual solid waste

Ionic cadmium (Cd (II)) in water is a significant threat to ecosystems, the environment, and human health. Research is currently focused on developing efficient adsorption materials to combat Cd (II) pollution in water. One promising solution involves co-pyrolyzing solid residue from anaerobic digestion of food waste with oil-based drill cuttings pyrolysis residue to create a biochar with high organic matter content. This biochar has a lower heavy metal content and leaching toxicity compared to China's national standards, making it both safe and resourceful. It exhibits a high adsorption capacity for Cd (II) in water, reaching up to 47.80 ± 0.37 mg/g. Raising the pyrolysis temperature above 600 °C and increasing the amount of pyrolysis residue beyond 30 % enhances the biochar's adsorption capacity. The adsorption process is primarily driven by mineral precipitation, offering a promising approach for dual waste resource management and reducing heavy metal pollution.