Risk assessment of toxic and hazardous metals in paddy agroecosystem by biochar-for bio-membrane applications

Chemosphere. 2023 Nov:340:139719. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139719. Epub 2023 Aug 5.

Abstract

Toxic and carcinogenic metal (loid)s, such arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd), found in contaminated paddy soils pose a serious danger to environmental sustainability. Their geochemical activities are complex, making it difficult to manage their contamination. Rice grown in Cd and As-polluted soils ends up in people's bellies, where it can cause cancer, anemia, and the deadly itai sickness. Solving this issue calls for research into eco-friendly and cost-effective remediation technology to lower rice's As and Cd levels. This research delves deeply into the origins of As and Cd in paddy soils, as well as their mobility, bioavailability, and uptake mechanisms by rice plants. It also examines the current methods and reactors used to lower As and Cd contamination in rice. Iron-modified biochar (Fe-BC) is a promising technology for reducing As and Cd toxicity in rice, improving soil health, and boosting rice's nutritional value. Biochar's physiochemical characteristics are enhanced by the addition of iron, making it a potent adsorbent for As and Cd ions. In conclusion, Fe-BC's biomembrane properties make them an attractive option for remediating As- and Cd-contaminated paddy soils. More efficient mitigation measures, including the use of biomembrane technology, can be developed when sustainable agriculture practices are combined with these technologies.

Keywords: Biomembrane; Carcinogen; Environmental remediation; Environmental sustainability; Food safety; Health hazard.

MeSH terms

  • Arsenic* / analysis
  • Cadmium / analysis
  • Humans
  • Iron / chemistry
  • Oryza* / chemistry
  • Risk Assessment
  • Soil / chemistry
  • Soil Pollutants* / analysis

Substances

  • Cadmium
  • biochar
  • Iron
  • Arsenic
  • Soil
  • Soil Pollutants