PhD Dissertation - Yifan Huang
Abstract
This dissertation presents advanced modelling approaches for understanding cadmium (Cd) binding to plant-based biochars using the Three-Site NICA-Donnan model. Biochar, as a soil amendment, plays a critical role in immobilizing heavy metals and reducing their bioavailability in contaminated soils.
The Three-Site NICA-Donnan model extends the classical NICA-Donnan framework by distinguishing between strong, weak, and very weak binding sites on the biochar surface, allowing more accurate prediction of Cd speciation across a range of pH and concentration conditions.
Key findings include: (1) plant-based biochars exhibit heterogeneous binding sites well described by the three-site formulation; (2) the model accurately reproduces experimental adsorption edges and isotherms; (3) parameter sensitivity analysis reveals that strong-site capacity and median affinity are the most critical parameters for Cd binding prediction.
Citation
Huang Y. (2025). Modelling and Predicting Cadmium Speciation in Soil Mixed with Biochar: From Microscopic Mechanisms to Macroscopic Effects. PhD Dissertation. Wageningen University.