Enhanced Adsorption Capacities of Fungicides Using Peanut Shell Biochar via Successive Chemical Modification with KMnO4 and KOH

This study explored the effects of peanut shell biochar (PSB) on the adsorption capacities of fungicides with and without successive chemical modifications, using KMnO4 and KOH (PSBOX-A), in order to provide a valuable understanding of their adsorption mechanisms and behaviors. To this end, the physicochemical properties of PSB and PSBOX-A were examined by using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer. The effects of temperature, ionic strength, and humic acids on the adsorption of fungicides, using PSB and PSBOX-A, were estimated through batch experiments. Furthermore, adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamics were studied. The maximum adsorption capacities of fungicides by PSBOX-A were estimated to be more notable (Q(max) of carbendazim = 531.2 mu mol g(-1), Q(max) of pyrimethanil = 467.7 mu mol g(-1), and Q(max) of tebuconazole = 495.1 mu mol g(-1)) than PSB (Q(max) of carbendazim = 92.6 mu mol g(-1), Q(max) of pyrimethanil = 61.7 mu mol g(-1), and Q(max) of tebuconazole = 66.7 mu mol g(-1)). These findings suggest that successive chemical modification using KMnO4 and KOH could potentially be used to effectively fabricate PSB to remove fungicides in water-treatment processes.

Automated summary

This study found that the successive chemical modification of peanut shell biochar using KMnO4 and KOH can enhance its adsorption capacity for fungicides, potentially making it a valuable tool for water treatment processes.