Immobilization of TNT and RDX Explosives from Contaminated Soil at Demining Sites in Amuru District, Northern Uganda, Using Rice Husk Biochar

Article Authors: Ocaya, J. , Arwenyo, B. , Ongwech, A. , Nnamuyomba, P. , Angwech, H. , Awor, S. , Kanis, D. , Kigozi, M. and Kisitu, J. (2025)

    • Abstract


    Abstract
    The study investigated using rice husk biochar (RHB) to immobilize TNT and RDX explosives in soil at demining sites in Amuru District, Uganda. RHB produced via pyrolysis at 550˚C was applied at a rate of 5% w/w to soil samples spiked at 50 µg∙g−1 RDX or TNT. The Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) analysis showed that the RHB immobilized 56% – 67% of RDX and 55% – 69% of TNT. The biochar’s porous structure and surface functional groups facilitated the explosive adsorption, reducing bioavailability. This demonstrates RHB’s effectiveness as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective remediation strategy.

    Bibliographical metadata

    Journal Journal of Geoscience and Environment Protection
    Volume 13
    Issue No. 11
    DOI https://doi.org/10.4236/gep.2025.1311005
    Related Faculties/Schools
    Affiliation

    1Department of Chemistry, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda.
    2Directorate of Forensic Services, Uganda Police Force, Kampala, Uganda.
    3Department of Biology, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda.
    4Department of Chemistry and Physics, Chicago State University, Chicago, USA.
    5Department of Chemistry, Busitema University, Tororo, Uganda.