Biological Treatment for Biochar Modification: Opportunities, Limitations, and Advantages

Abstract

Biochar is a prominent adsorbent for environmental remediation. The physicochemical properties responsible for adsorption can be significantly enhanced by using physical, chemical, and biological treatments of biochar. The biological treatment methods are advantageous in terms of cost-effectiveness and reduced secondary pollutants. The present chapter summarizes the need, methodology, modification mechanism of biological modification of biochar, and its implementation for environmental remediation. The biologically modified biochar can be obtained by either ex situ (pyrolysis of anaerobically digested residue) or in situ (using extracellular enzymes) technologies. The process includes colonization and biofilm formation by microorganisms on biochar surface and attachment of microbes. Biologically modified biochar metabolizes organic/inorganic contaminants and helps in adsorption, biodegradation, and bio-adsorption simultaneously.