Synthesis and Characterization of Low-Cost Porous Carbon from Palm Oil Shell via K2CO3 Chemical Activation Process

Abstract

The abundant fraction of agricultural waste materials in the environment that poses disposal challenge could be converted into useful value added products such as activated carbon. Palm oil shell based carbon was prepared by two step process using K2CO3 as the chemical activant. The Langmuir surface area, BET surface area and pore volume were 817 m2/g, 707m2/g and 0.31cm3/g. From the FTIR analysis, carbonyls, alkenes and hydroxyls were identified. The SEM image shows gradual formation of pores due to elimination of volatiles and contaminants. Carbonization at 800°C for 2 hours and activation at same temperature for 1h has the highest yield of 23.27%. The proximate and ultimate analysis shows high percentage of carbon and low percentage of ash which is an indication of a good material for production of porous carbon. The activated carbon produced showed basic properties suitable for removal of organic contaminants in aqueous solutions. However, the aim of this study is to produce a green and porous carbon with controlled pores and surface properties for organic contaminants removal from water and wastewater.