Progress in green adsorbent technologies from sewage sludge for wastewater remediation and carbon capture: A sustainable approach towards clean environment

Abstract

Researchers worldwide have significantly emphasized utilizing green adsorbents for environmental remediation to ensure a sustainable and secure environment. A promising avenue in this endeavor involves the production of biochar through the pyrolysis of sewage sludge. This review offers a contemporary exploration of sewage sludge pyrolysis, emphasizing the generation of a crucial solid fraction, namely biochar. This review delves into the physio-chemical attributes of biochar, encompassing elemental composition, specific surface area, pore size and volume, functional groups, surface morphology, and heavy metal content. Furthermore, the study discusses recent advancements in the adsorption capabilities of sewage sludge-derived biochar, specifically in removing metals, emerging pollutants, and dyes from wastewater, along with carbon capture. This biochar proves promising in both pollutant removal and the effective management of large sewage volumes. Despite these advancements, the research field warrants further attention, particularly in addressing technological features and sustainability considerations.