Anaerobic Digestion Supplemented With Biochars to Eliminate Antibiotics and Antibiotic-Resistant Genes: A Sustainable Environmental Conservation Publisher



Pasalari H ; Javid A ; Abdollahinejad B ; Hosseinzadeh AH ; Mousavi J ; Farzadkia M ; Rtimi S ; Aminabhavi TM
Source: Process Safety and Environmental Protection Published:2026

Abstract

The potential toxicity and inhibition effects of antibiotics and antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) are of great concern for optimum performance and stability of anaerobic digestion (AD). This review discusses information on technical feasibility of biochar addition in AD for simultaneous efficient antibiotic removal and biogas production. A comprehensive keyword search across Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase was conducted, from which 22 studies have focused on different biochar (BC) modifications with acid, alkaline and metals and their application on enhanced biogas production with an efficient removal of ARGs. The compiled data and interpreted information on physico-chemical characteristics of biochars and factors affecting enhanced adsorption capacity and degradation process of antibiotics in AD are critically discussed to realise that BC modification with acid, alkaline and metal approaches could improve adsorption capacity, electrical conductivity, microbial growth and enzyme activity, consequently improving the energy production with low inhibition effects. The expansive surface area and active functional groups of the BC play a pivotal role in reducing the prevalence of ARGs across various phases of anaerobic digestion. BC addition with optimum dosages has been the feasible approach to improve AD operational performance to reduce inhibition effects in wastewater containing high concentration levels of antibiotics from pharmaceutical industries. The review focuses on resources with conservation and recycling of wastes to create a benign environment via anaerobic digestion approach. © 2026 Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.