New Trends in Biochar-Mineral Composites

Abstract

The use of biochar–mineral composites has been rapidly developed, supplying numerous benefits to environmental applications including soil and water remediation, specifically assisting in wastewater treatment. They offer an advantageous diversity of shapes, micro- and nanosized particles, and functional groups. Therefore, biochar–minerals are used to absorb, retain, and degrade toxic metals and emerging organic contaminants. Moreover, environmental microorganisms can improve their performance in a synergic way. Current knowledge in nanotechnology and biotechnology enables new approaches for developing and using biochar–mineral composites. This chapter describes how researchers have taken advantage of these new tools. Also, the authors aim to highlight those examples of biochar–mineral-based composites that demonstrate multifunctional performance and a remarkable capacity to solve current environmental issues.