Characterization of activated carbon prepared from local raw materials (palm shell) by chemical activation

Abstract

Activated carbon is a porous carbon material which possesses a high adsorption capacity and is widely used as adsorbent in the purification of liquids and gases. Malaysia is the largest producer of palm oil and produced palm shell as the by­ product. Palm shells are generally utilize as fuels or building materials, all with relatively low value. Thus, it is an economical way to use palm shell as a raw material for the preparation of activated carbon. There are two categories for preparing an activated carbon which are physical activation and chemical activation. Chemical activation is known as a single step method of preparation of activated carbon in the presents of chemical agents while physical activation involves a carbonization of carbonaceous materials followed by activation of the resulting char in the presents of activating agents such as CO2 or steam.