Engineered biochar reclaiming phosphate from aqueous solutions: mechanisms and potential application as a slow-release fertilizer

Environ Sci Technol. 2013 Aug 6;47(15):8700-8. doi: 10.1021/es4012977. Epub 2013 Jul 25.

Abstract

This work explored the potential application of an engineered biochar prepared from Mg-enriched tomato tissues to reclaim and reuse phosphate (P) from aqueous solution. Findings from batch sorption experiments suggested that, although sorption of P on the biochar was controlled by relatively slow kinetics, the maximum P sorption capacity of the biochar could reach >100 mg·g(-1). Mathematical modeling and postsorption characterization results indicated that the sorption was mainly controlled by two mechanisms: precipitation of P through chemical reaction with Mg particles and surface deposition of P on Mg crystals on biochar surfaces. Most of the P retained in the engineered biochar was bioavailable and could be released equally at multiple successive extractions. In addition, the P-laden biochar significantly stimulated grass seed germination and growth. These results suggested the postsorption biochar can be cycled back directly to soils as an effective slow-release P-fertilizer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Charcoal*
  • Fertilizers*
  • Germination
  • Kinetics
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Phosphates / chemistry*
  • Seeds / growth & development
  • Solutions
  • Water

Substances

  • Fertilizers
  • Phosphates
  • Solutions
  • biochar
  • Water
  • Charcoal