Techno-Economic Assessment of Biochar Adsorption for the Treatment of Surface Water

This study aims to propose a cost-effective solution for addressing the global challenge of water scarcity by exploring the use of biochar in a downflow fixed bed adsorption system for the removal of contaminants from surface water. The process parameters were optimized using a commonly used antibiotic, sulfamethoxazole. The Clark model provided the best fit to the data, suggesting its potential for accurately predicting the breakthrough curve. The system's reusability was also assessed through an advanced continuous regeneration method. Its applicability was further validated by real-case surface water treatment tests, accompanied by comprehensive pollutant analysis. A techno-economic assessment revealed a unit cost of less than 1 euro/m³, demonstrating the system's commercial viability. This study underscores the potential of biochar as a cost-effective water treatment solution for large-scale applications.