Efficient removal of Cu2+, Pb2+, and Cd2+ by two magnetic biochar-montmorillonite composites and the application in synthetic wastewater

Key Points

• Efficient removal of Cu2+, Pb2+, and Cd2+ occurs when using magnetic biochar-montmorillonite composites.
• The composites achieved up to 90% removal rates for each metal within 120 minutes of exposure.
• Analysis of synthetic wastewater showed the composites effectively adsorb contaminants even at high concentrations.
• This method supports promising strategies for managing heavy metal pollution in various water bodies.