Hierarchically porous biochar derived from aerobic granular sludge for high-performance membrane capacitive deionization

Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) is a cost-effective desalination technique known for its low energy consumption. The performance of MCDI cells relies on the properties of electrode materials. Activated carbon is the most widely used electrode material. However, the capacitive carbon available on the market is often expensive. Here, we developed hierarchically porous biochar by combining carbonization and activation processes, using easily acquired aerobic granular sludge (AGS) from biological sewage treatment plants as a precursor. The biochar had a specific surface area of 1822.07 m2 g−1, with a micropore area ratio of 58.65% and a micropore volume of 0.576 cm3 g−1. The MCDI cell employing the biochar as electrodes demonstrated a specific adsorption capacity of 34.35 mg g−1, comparable to commercially available activated carbon electrodes. Our study presents a green and sustainable approach for preparing highly efficient, hierarchically porous biochar from AGS, offering great potential for enhanced performance in MCDI applications. [Display omitted] •Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) calls for affordable electrode materials.•Aerobic granular sludge (AGS)-based biochar can be an alternative.•AGS biochar exhibits a hierarchical porous structure and high specific surface area.•The specific capacitance is enhanced by ∼12% compared to commercial activated carbon.•AGS biochar provides a green and feasible solution for high-performance MCDI.