Removal of Radioactive Cesium (134Cs plus 137Cs) from Low-Level Contaminated Water by Charcoal and Broiler Litter Biochar

Various charcoals (used in food processing and water treatment) and broiler litter biochar were examined for ability to adsorb water-soluble low-level radioactive cesium (ca. 200 – 250 Bq/kg) extracted from contaminated wheat bran. Among the materials tested, steam activated broiler litter biochar was the most effective sorbent and was able to reduce the concentration of radioactive cesium to less than 10 Bq/kg. Adsorption was observed under neutral and alkaline conditions but not under acidic conditions. Cesium binding to steam activated broiler litter biochar appeared to be stable under alkaline conditions.