Applications of biochar in redox-mediated reactions

Yong Yuan, Nanthi Bolan, Antonin Prévoteau, Meththika Vithanage, Jayanta Kumar Biswas, Yong Sik Ok, Hailong Wang

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

359 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Biochar is chemically more reduced and reactive than the original feedstock biomass. Graphite regions, functional groups, and redox-active metals in biochar contribute to its redox characteristics. While the functional groups such as phenolic species in biochar are the main electron donating moieties (i.e., reducers), the quinones and polycondensed aromatic functional groups are the components accepting electrons (oxidants). The redox capacity of biochar depends on feedstock properties and pyrolysis conditions. This paper aims to review and summarize the various synthesis techniques for biochars and the methods for probing their redox characteristics. We review the abiotic and microbial applications of biochars as electron donors, electron acceptors, or electron shuttles for pollutant degradation, metal(loid)s (im)mobilization, nutrient transformation, and discuss the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, knowledge gaps that exist in the exploration and differentiation of the electron transfer mechanisms involving biochars are also identified.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)271-281
Number of pages11
JournalBioresource technology
Volume246
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017 Dec

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2017 Elsevier Ltd

Keywords

  • Biochar
  • Functional groups
  • Graphite regions
  • Pyrolysis
  • Redox reactions

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Bioengineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Waste Management and Disposal

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Applications of biochar in redox-mediated reactions'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this