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A new type of calcium-rich biochars derived from spent mushroom substrates and their efficient adsorption properties for cationic dyes

Summary

Researchers developed a low-cost material called biochar from leftover mushroom growing substrates that can effectively remove harmful dyes from wastewater. By heating these spent mushroom substrates to high temperatures, they created a porous material rich in calcium that works as a powerful filter. This biochar can be used multiple times and doesn’t require expensive chemical treatments, making it practical for large-scale wastewater cleanup in textile and related industries.

Background

Dye wastewater from textile, paper, and food industries poses significant environmental and health threats. Adsorption is a promising treatment strategy, but there is a need for low-cost, effective adsorbents. Spent mushroom substrates (SMSs) are abundant agricultural wastes rich in calcium minerals that could serve as ideal biochar feedstock.

Objective

This study evaluated calcium-rich biochars (GSBC and LSBC) derived from spent substrates of Ganoderma lucidum and Lentinus edodes for their adsorption efficiency of cationic dyes (Malachite Green and Safranine T). The research aimed to systematically examine how pyrolysis temperature affects biochar characteristics and dye adsorption mechanisms.

Results

Higher pyrolysis temperatures increased ash content, calcium content, and specific surface area, with LS750 showing superior adsorption capacity of 9,388.04 mg/g for Malachite Green and 3,871.48 mg/g for Safranine T. Adsorption mechanisms involved pore filling, electrostatic interactions, ion exchange, π-π stacking, and hydrogen bonding (for MG). Biochars maintained strong reusability over four adsorption-desorption cycles.

Conclusion

Calcium-rich biochars derived from spent mushroom substrates demonstrate excellent adsorption performance for cationic dyes without chemical modification. Their low cost, high efficiency, and good reusability make them highly promising for industrial-scale dyeing wastewater treatment applications.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 36204471, DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1007630
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