Characterization of Chemically Activated Carbons Produced from Coconut and Palm Kernel Shells Using SEM and FTIR Analyses

Abstract

Chem. activated carbons generated from coconut (CS) and palm kernel (PKS) shells soaked with 1M solution of K2CO3 and NaHCO3 at 1000°C using the Carbolite Muffle Furnace were examined using SEM (SEM) and Fourier Transformation IR Spectroscopy (FTIR). Results from the FTIR analyses revealed that the coconut and palm kernel shells manufactured were successfully chem. activated. Several chem. compounds and functional groups, such as hydroxyl groups, carbonyl groups, ethers, alkanes, alkenes, and aromatic groups, were detected in chem. activated carbon produced from palm kernels and coconut shells as proof of the lignocellulose structure in them. Chem. activated carbon made from coconut shells exhibited nine distinct spectra, while palm kernel shells exhibited six distinct spectra. The pores were larger in the chem. activated carbons produced at a higher temperature (1000°C), demonstrating that temperature is an essential process parameter in the development of surface porosity in chem. activated carbons. The chem. carbonization activation methods used provided porosity, a large surface area, and precise morphol. for absorption in both the coconut and palm kernel shells, indicating that they can be turned to high-performance adsorbents. Both organic and inorganic contaminants can be removed from the environment using the chem. activated carbons produced.