Ricerc@Sapienza

In this paper, RE-CHAR® biochar, produced by a wood biomass pyrolysis process, which is usually applied as a soil fertilizer, was investigated for a novel use, that was as adsorbent for remediating a lead-contaminated solution. Firstly, a deep physical and chemical characterization of RE-CHAR® biochar was carried out. Then, the adsorption capacity of lead from 50 to 100 mg/L solutions was determined under batch and continuous flow conditions.

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are the most investigated compounds in the class of perfluoroalkyl substances for their persistence and wider diffusion in the environment. However, fate and behaviour of PFOA and PFOS in the Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) have not been fully understood yet. The aim of the present study was to obtain a better understanding of the processes occurring to PFOS and PFOA in the activated sludge reactor. Several experimental tests were performed in the presence of activated sludge and sterilized sludge.

This paper aims to compare the adsorption performance of activated carbon and pine bark for iron and manganese removal from contaminated groundwater. Moreover, their environmental compatibility was checked for their possible use as reactive media in a permeable reactive barrier for in situ remediation.