Adsorption of Oxytetracycline Hydrochloride and Chloramphenicol in Single and Binary Component Systems by Loofah Sponge-Based Biochar

In this study, loofah sponge-based biochar (KLSF/C) prepared by two-step pyrolysis and KOH modification was utilized in removing oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTCH) and chloramphenicol (CAP) in single system and binary component systems. The effects of adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, and pH value on adsorption performance were discussed. The adsorption data could be well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacities of OTCH and CAP at 25 degrees C were 790.49 mg g(-1) and 635.79 mg g(-1) in the single component system and 717.15 mg g(-1) and 581.39 mg g(-1) in the binary component system, respectively. In both systems, the adsorption capacity of KLSF/C for OTCH was always higher than that for CAP. Thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption process was exothermic and spontaneous. Intraparticle diffusion and membrane diffusion were involved in the adsorption process. Overall, KLSF/C could be considered as an ideal adsorbent in removing antibiotics from water, which provided useful guidance for turning waste into wealth.

Automated summary

In this study, loofah sponge-based biochar was used to remove oxytetracycline hydrochloride and chloramphenicol from water. The adsorption performance and mechanisms were discussed, and it was found that the biochar had high adsorption capacities for both antibiotics.