Synthesis of activated carbon from food waste

Abstract

Activated carbon is a material for many adsorption applications, combining low-cost and high-quality properties. Many sources of activated carbon have been reported including fly ash, lignite, coal, petroleum pitch, coconut shell and rise husk. Lignocellulosic biomass gains more and more attention due to the fact that it is easily obtained from a wide range of agricultural products and their by-products. Here, we review lignocellulosic-based activated carbon with focus on synthesis, characterization and performance for water decontamination and industrial wastewater treatment; examples for gas phase pollutants are given. Furthermore, the effect of various parameters, such as lignocelluloses source and activation temperature on final properties, is discussed. Special attention is given to activated carbons based on some of agricultural wastes/by-products of the Mediterranean region.