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Sustainable magnetic biochar from agro-aquacultural waste for efficient Pb(II) and Cd(II) removal: Machine learning–assisted optimization and techno-economic evaluation
Author(s)
Limmun, Wanida
Prangmoo, Yasumin
Ishikawa, Nao
Borkowski, John J.
Ito, Ayumi
Date Issued
May 15, 2026
Type
Article
Abstract
This study presents the sustainable synthesis and optimization of magnetic biochar derived from agro-aquacultural waste, specifically rubber seed shells and oyster shells (MRO), for the efficient removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solutions. MRO was synthesized via FeCl3 activation and co-pyrolysis, enhancing adsorption capacity and magnetic recoverability. Process optimization was performed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and a Genetic Algorithm–Backpropagation Neural Network (GA–BPNN), with experimental validation confirming RSM-predicted conditions. The optimized MRO achieved high adsorption capacities of 709.99 mg/g for Pb(II) and 332.98 mg/g for Cd(II), following Langmuir and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. Mechanistic analysis identified surface complexation, ion exchange, electrostatic interaction, and precipitation as key pathways. MRO demonstrated excellent reusability, maintaining over 90% Pb(II) removal efficiency after 11 regeneration cycles. Techno-economic and environmental assessments revealed a low production cost (23 THB/kg), modest energy consumption (2.5 kWh/kg), and a reduced carbon footprint (0.50 kg CO2/kg). These results underscore the potential of MRO as a cost-effective and scalable adsorbent for sustainable wastewater treatment applications.
Citation
Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 212, 2026