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A Sustainable Solution to Nutrient Pollution: Investigating Water Filtration with Biochar

CSEF · 2026 Chemistry (Senior Division)

Harish Anand, Haran Swaminathan, Ethan Golez

Overview

The main purpose of this research project is to analyze the relative abilities of different varieties of biochar in chemically filtering water for populations in developing nations. Produced through the pyrolysis of biomass, biochar is a black, porous, lightweight, and fine-grained structure that has a large surface area. It is inexpensive, accessible, and available to both individuals and communities. In our experiment, we used biochars made from a variety of feedstocks (including forest biomass, agricultural waste, etc.) in order to purify water. This study utilizes biochar’s chemical mechanisms, including adsorption of chemical pollutants, surface functional group chemistry, ion exchange, complexation, electrostatic attraction, and chemical precipitation. In addition, feedstock material and grain size were analyzed in our science project. Our findings show us how biochar is an adsorbent system that, through chemistry, is clearly able to filter water for a wide range of communities.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2026 Chemistry (Senior Division) · Entry S-05-11

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