Effect of ageing on surface charge characteristics and adsorption behaviour of cadmium and arsenate in two contrasting soils amended with biochar

Abstract

Biochar has been recognised as an effective amendment for the remediation of contaminated soils; however, there is limited knowledge on the effects of biochar ageing in soil on its adsorption behaviour for cationic and anionic species. Biochars are considered to develop negative charge from oxidation with ageing, which may create additional interaction mechanisms for adsorption processes. In the present study, surface charge characteristics and cadmium (Cd) and arsenate (AsO43–) adsorption behaviour of aged biochar were investigated in two soils with variable charge, an Oxisol and an Inceptisol, by comparing (i) unamended soils, and soils amended with (ii) fresh biochar (450°C) and (iii) biochar (450°C) aged for 12 months, applied at a rate of 2% w/w. Surface charge characteristics were assessed using the ‘index’ ion adsorption method, with a LiCl electrolyte. Batch adsorption studies were conducted using fresh and aged soil–biochar mixtures. In contrast to previous studies, the results provided no evidence of an increase in cation exchange capacity as a consequence of biochar ageing. There was an increase in Cd adsorption in the presence of aged biochar in both soil types compared with unamended soils and soils amended with fresh biochar. Results also indicated an increase in AsO43– adsorption in the Inceptisol amended with aged biochar, whereas a decrease in AsO43– adsorption was observed in the Oxisol amended with aged biochar. Overall, the study has highlighted that adsorption behaviour of aged biochar varies depending on the ion it interacts with, soil properties and solution pH.