Abstract
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•TC and Cu2+ could be effectively and simultaneously removed by SBC.•When coexisted with Cu2+, the adsorption capacity of TC was significantly enhanced.•The concentration of TC and Cu2+ have a great effect on the co-adsorption process.•The salinity inhibitory effect for TC was neutralized by bridge enhancement.•Bridge enhancement and site competition were involved in the synergistic removal.
Steam-activated biochar (SBC) was prepared and showed excellent performance for synergistic removal of Cu2+ and tetracycline (TC). The adsorption capacity of SBC and mutual effect of TC and Cu2+ were investigated via single and binary system and the adsorption isotherm. The adsorption capacity of TC was significantly enhanced when it coexisted with Cu2+. Likewise, increased amounts of Cu2+ were adsorbed in the presence of TC. The presence of NaCl exerted a negative influence on the adsorption of Cu2+, while the inhibitory effect of salinity on TC was neutralized by bridge enhancement in the binary system. Bridge enhancement and site competition were involved in the synergistic removal of TC and Cu2+. Considering the stable application in simulated and real water samples, SBC showed great potential for synergistic removal of antibiotics and heavy metals.