Optimization of Activated Carbons Production from Sesame Stalks Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

The use of relatively expensive and nonrenewable precursors such as natural coal is the main reasons for the high cost of commercial activated carbons. Agricultural wastes are considered as promising precursors for low cost and high surface area activated carbons due to their high volatile matter and lignocellulosic contents and their renewable natures. To recycle agricultural wastes and decrease activated carbon(AC) production cost, in this study, AC from sesame stalks were prepared by sodium hydroxide activation. Activation temperature, activation time and impregnation ratio (IR) were optimized by Response surface methodology (RSM) in AC preparation. Results showed that temperature at 640°C, time 1.45h and IR 1.93, methylene blue(MB) adsorption capacity and yield of AC reached 224.11 mg/g and 18.29%, respectively. Furthermore, surface characteristics of AC were studied using BET surface area analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).