Hydrothermal Synthesis and Chemical Activation of Mesoporous Carbon Derived from Musa Paradisiaca Residues for the Removal of Bisphenol-A from Water

This study examines the conversion of green plantain peels (Musa paradisiaca), an abundant agricultural waste in Ecuador, into hydrothermally treated nanostructured carbon (also known as hydrochar) activated for the removal of bisphenol A (BPA) from water. The materials were synthesized through hydrothermal carbonization followed by chemical activation with citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. BPA adsorption capacity was assessed through kinetic and isothermal studies, which showed a significant improvement in removal efficiency after chemical activation. Physicochemical characterization revealed surface modifications that enhance contaminant adsorption. The results indicate that these activated hydrochars represent a sustainable and economically viable alternative for treating BPA-contaminated water, utilizing local agricultural waste. This research aids in advancing green technologies for environmental cleanup and the valorizations of organic waste, fostering the principles of Circular Engineering.