Physico-chemical Characterization and Comparative Studies of Some Heavy Metals Using Activated Carbon from Date Palm Seed

Abstract

Activated carbon from date palm seed was analyzed to ascertain the physicochemical parameters and conduct comparative studies [with industrial activated carbons- Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) and Granular Activated Carbon (GAC)] of some heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Co, Mn and Cr) present using standard analytical techniques. The physicochemical parameters of the activated carbon as determined were: Bulk density (0.69 g/ml), Ash content (6.92%), Iodine value (10.38 mg/g), Volatile organic matter (7.63%), pH (6.92) and Moisture content (0.60%). The result also showed that date palm seed activated carbon adsorbed more of the Pb, as well as Cr better than the industrial activated carbon (GAC and PAC). The XRD result showed that the carbon has an amorphous structure which agrees with diffractogram of other activated carbons.