Microbially-enriched poultry litter-derived biochar for the treatment of acid mine drainage

Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and a biochar array were used to reduce sulfate concentrations and the levels of metals in acid mine drainage (AMD) waters. Cow manure SRB-enriched biochar promoted sulfate reductions of 41% compared to original AMD, and 39% compared to other treatments (control, AMD sediment, sludge). Treatments reduced levels of all analyzed metals below Brazilian official standards. DGGE showed a significant relation between SRB-source and SRB-structural community, where cow manure and sludge presented the more cohesive community structure throughout the monitoring (180 days). The study showed that AMD treatment alternatives can be applied and are effective in reducing the contamination of wastewaters.