Abstract
Using Na2CO3 versus NaCl as chemical activator, we compared the quality of activated carbon produced from oil palm fronds as raw material. These activators were selected for comparison because both are readily available and are environmentally friendly. In the manufacturing, we used Indonesian National Standard (SNI 06-3730-1995) parameters. For the quality comparison, we determined activated-carbon yield, moisture, ash, volatiles, and fixed-carbon contents; and adsorption capacity of iodine. The best characteristics, assessed by morphological surface analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectral analysis, were observed in the carbon activated by Na2CO3 at an activator concentration of 10% and carbonization temperature of 400 °C. The results were as follows: activated-carbon yield, 84%; water content, 8.80%; ash content, 2.20%; volatiles content, 14.80%; fixed-carbon content, 68.60%; and adsorption capacity of iodine, 888.51 mg/g. Identification using the FTIR spectrophotometer showed the presence of the functional groups O-H, C=O, C=C, C-C, and C-H in the Na2CO3-activated carbon.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
