Algal-Based Carbonaceous Materials for Environmental Remediation: Advances in Wastewater Treatment, Carbon Sequestration, and Biofuel Applications

Abstract

Water pollution from industrial, municipal, and agricultural sources is a pressing global concern, necessitating the development of sustainable and efficient treatment solutions. Algal biomass has emerged as a promising feedstock for the production of carbonaceous adsorbents due to its rapid growth, high photosynthetic efficiency, and ability to thrive in wastewater. This review examines the conversion of algal biomass into biochar and hydrochar through pyrolysis and hydrothermal processes, respectively, and evaluates their potential applications in wastewater treatment, carbon sequestration, and biofuel production. Pyrolyzed algal biochars typically exhibit a moderate to high carbon content and a porous structure but require activation treatments (e.g., KOH or ZnCl2) to enhance their surface area and adsorption capabilities. Hydrothermal carbonization, conducted at lower temperatures (180–260 °C), produces hydrochars rich in oxygenated functional groups with enhanced cation exchange capacities, making them effective for pollutant removal. Algal-derived biochars and hydrochars have been successfully applied for the adsorption of heavy metals, dyes, and pharmaceutical contaminants, with adsorption capacities significantly increasing through post-treatment modifications. Beyond wastewater treatment, algal biochars serve as effective carbon sequestration materials due to their stable structure and high carbon retention. Their application as soil amendments enhances long-term carbon storage and improves soil fertility. Additionally, algal biomass plays a key role in biofuel production, particularly for biodiesel synthesis, where microalgae’s high lipid content facilitates bio-oil generation. Hydrochars, with energy values in the range of 20–26 MJ/kg, are viable solid fuels for combustion and co-firing, supporting renewable energy generation. Furthermore, the integration of these materials into bioenergy systems allows for waste valorization, pollution control, and energy recovery, contributing to a sustainable circular economy. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of algal-derived biochars and hydrochars, emphasizing their physicochemical properties, adsorption performance, and post-treatment modifications. It explores their feasibility for large-scale wastewater remediation, carbon capture, and bioenergy applications, addressing current challenges and future research directions. By advancing the understanding of algal biomass as a multifunctional resource, this study highlights its potential for environmental sustainability and energy innovation.