Engineered biochar composites for improved adsorption stability and remediation of the wastewater

Biochar, a carbon-dense substance utilized for environmental conservation, soil improvement, and carbon sequestration in sustainable farming, often faces challenges such as insufficient interfacial adhesion, thermal instability and leaching of toxic elements into groundwater, hindering its broader application. Employing and integrating polymers to enhance the structural integrity, surface compatibility, and adsorption effectiveness of biochar has shown to be a successful strategy for addressing these challenges. This review highlights the emergent application of polymer-coated biochar (PCB) to improve the functional efficacy of biochar obtained from organic waste via pyrolysis. Recent studies have focused on polymer-biochar composites, showcasing notable progress in grasping the physico-chemical interactions between polymers and carbon-rich matrices, while also revealing substantial gaps in understanding their long-term environmental effects and degradation processes. This comprehensive review investigates various polymer-coating methods and their effects on the physicochemical and functional properties of biochar, emphasizing enhanced pollutant adsorption, controlled nutrient release, and increased resistance to chemical and thermal degradation. The potential applications of PCB in sustainable waste management, pollution cleanup, and circular economy strategies are explored, emphasizing environmental benefits alongside possible ecological risks. Such analytical evaluation would integrate current studies to establish a foundation for future progress in PCB materials, providing crucial insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to align biochar innovation with global sustainability objectives.