Bioremediation of Heavy Metals in Tannery Effluent Contaminated Soil Using Biochar

This study examines how biochar can help remove heavy metals, like chromium (Cr), from soils contaminated by tannery effluent. Biochar is a carbon-rich material made by heating organic matter in the absence of oxygen. It has been found to improve soil health by enhancing its structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, while also reducing the levels of toxic metals in the soil. The incorporation of 10 % biochar resulted in a substantial 90 % reduction in Cr uptake by the plant, demonstrating its efficacy in sequestering heavy metals and limiting their bioavailability. Biochar not only stabilized Cr within the soil matrix but also improved soil health by enhancing structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of various functional groups indicative of chemical transformations and interactions between biochar and soil contaminants. Peaks related to O-H,C≡C, C=C=N, and C=C=C stretching vibrations suggest the formation of active sites responsible for metal immobilization. The results underscore the potential of biochar to enhance phytoremediation performance and contribute to sustainable soil management strategies in heavy metal-contaminated environments.

⓿ Biochar application markedly reduced chromium uptake in contaminated soils.

⓿ It enhanced soil health by improving structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability.

⓿ FTIR analysis verified biochar-contaminant interactions, supporting heavy metal immobilization.

⓿ The presence of biochar boosted the phytoremediation efficiency of Nerium oleander.

⓿ Overall, biochar represents a sustainable soil management approach for heavy metal-contaminated environments.