Preparation of activated carbon by microwave-induced KOH activation and its application in dye removal

Abstract

This study presents the preparation of rubber seed coat based activated carbon (RSCAC) via microwave irradiation assisted KOH activation for adsorption of malachite green (MG) in aqueous solution. The effects of MG initial concentration (100-500 mg/L), contact time (0-24 h) and solution temperature (30-60 °C) were evaluated through batch adsorption test. The MG dye uptake increased with increased in initial dye concentration and contact time. The equilibrium data were favorably described by Freundlich isotherm, while adsorption kinetic was best fitted to the Lagergren model. The adsorption rate of process was endothermic and controlled by film diffusion. The findings support the feasibility of rubber seed coat as an attractive precursor for dye removal.