Steam and KOH Activated Carbons from Peach Stones

Abstract

Peach-stone-based activated carbons were prepared by using steam and KOH activation at 800°C. The effects of solid/liquid phase KOH and steam activation, alkali and acidic pre-treatment, and also single-step activation on activated carbon properties were investigated comprehensively. The activated carbon produced by solid phase KOH impregnation showed the highest surface area of 835 m2/g and micropore volume of 0.412 cm3/g. Besides, single-step steam activation produced a highly microporous carbon having a relatively high surface area of 608 m2/g and micropore volume of 0.331 cm3/g. Peach-stone-based activated carbons with well-developed pore structure and functional properties were achieved, comparable to the commercial carbon, CPG-LF (Chemviron Carbon). The produced carbons were tested for Chromium (VI) removal from aqueous solution. Some of the activated carbons showed higher Chromium (VI) adsorption capacity than commercial activated carbon, CPG-LF (Chemviron Carbon).