Assessing the Removal Efficiency of Microplastics in Aqueous Solutions Using Tobacco Waste Biochar

Abstract

Plastic pollution is a pressing issue in developing countries like Pakistan. It poses serious impacts on environment, while affecting aquatic ecosystems and consequently human health. The issue remains majorly unaddressed in Pakistan, while there are a few research studies on microplastics occurrence and abundance, there still is a gap for research focused towards the removal of microplastics from water bodies. With our final year project, we are contributing towards the accomplishment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 and 12, via proposing a low-cost and sustainable approach for the removal of microplastics from water. Our idea focuses on the utilization of biochar, a promising adsorbent that can be easily fabricated and exhibits excellent adsorption capabilities for pollutants. In this project, we aimed to enhance the adsorption efficiency of biochar by magnetizing it, enabling easy removal from water. To develop an eco-friendly adsorbent and establish a link with industries for minimization of their waste, we obtained tobacco waste from vendors affiliated to a renowned international company. Research studies revealed that the most abundant type of microplastics in Rawal Lake, Islamabad to be HDPE which were synthesized in laboratory with various size ranges. The removal efficiency of the magnetized biochar for microplastics reached up to 94 percent after adsorption. To ensure the sustainability and cycle stability of the proposed solution, the magnetized biochar was regenerated and reused in the same process. Through regeneration, an impressive efficiency of up to 92 percent was maintained, indicating that our approach not only effectively removes microplastics but also offers an efficient waste management strategy.