Effects of Biomass Type, Carbonization Process, and Activation Method on the Properties of Bio-Based Activated Carbons

Virpi Siipola (Corresponding Author), Tarja Tamminen, Anssi Källi, Riikka Lahti, Henrik Romar, Kimmo Rasa, Riikka Keskinen, Jari Hyväluoma, Markus Hannula, Hanne Wikberg

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

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    Abstract

    Activated carbons (AC) serve as adsorbents in various applications requiring specific functionalities. In this study, the effects of biomass type, pre-carbonization process, and activation method on the properties of ACs were investigated. Chemical (KOH and H3PO4) and physical (CO2) activations were performed on slow pyrolyzed and hydrothermally carbonized (HTC) biochars produced from two feedstocks, willow and Scots pine bark (SPB). In addition, the adsorption capacities of the ACs were tested with two dyes and zinc metal. Distinct differences were found between the biochars and ACs regarding pore size distributions, surface area (238-3505 m² g-1), and surface chemistry. KOH activation produced highly microporous ACs from all biochars, whereas with H3PO4 and CO2 there was also increase in the meso- and macroporosity with the HTC biochars. Adsorption capacity for dyes was dependent on the surface area, while for zinc it depended on AC’s pH. The results provide interesting insights into tailoring ACs for specific applications.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)5976-6002
    JournalBioResources
    Volume13
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 15 Jun 2018
    MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

    Keywords

    • Biochar
    • Activated carbon;
    • Bio-based activated carbon
    • Willow
    • Pine bark
    • X-ray tomography

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