Biochar Activated Carbon Greywater remediation Adsorption capacity Removal efficiency

This study was aimed at conducting a comparative analysis of the performance of biochar and activated carbon as filter media for greywater remediation and also evaluating key parameters including adsorption capacity, removal efficiency for specific contaminants, and environmental impacts through laboratory experiments, the study also assessed the effectiveness of both materials in removing common greywater contaminants such as organic compounds, nutrients and heavy metals. Biochar was prepared from plantain peels that was pyrolized at 600°C and activated with zinc chloride, while Activated carbon was produced through the pyrolysis of wood and activated through the use of zinc chloride as the activation reagent. The properties of the produced was characterized through the use of FTIR and SEMEDS characterization methods. The greywater sample was passed through both filter media and the adsorption efficiency of both filter media was measured by evaluating the reduction in contaminants such as organic matter, nutrients, and suspended solids before and after treatment. Biochar reduced pH by 26.7%, while activated carbon lowered it by 21%. Activated carbon was more effective, reducing turbidity by 56.5%, suspended solids by 45.5%, and heavy metals (iron 82.7%, lead 81.5%, cadmium 90.7%). Both reduced conductivity and total dissolved solids by 57–60%. Biochar increased alkalinity and hardness, while activated carbon lowered them by 57%. Biochar removed more chloride and performed similarly well for magnesium. In conclusion, activated carbon emerged as the more effective filtration medium for treating greywate