Removal of Volatile Toluene Using K2CO3-Activated Carbon Adsorbents Prepared from Buckwheat Hull

Carbon adsorbents for use in the removal of gaseous toluene from air were prepared buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) hull. A chemically-activated adsorbent was via impregnation raw hull powder with potassium carbonate, followed by thermal decomposition. The exhibited improved adsorption capacity compared to without chemical activation. Toluene concentration decreased 220 ppm 160 during 24 h using unactivated adsorbent. Only a trace amount remained after under same conditions K2CO3-activated This improvement explained based on experimental results, specifically, iodine tests, methylene blue and microscopic observations. Chemical activation dramatically increased specific surface area created mesopores capable adsorbing toluene. study revealed that mesoporous volatile can be waste biomass (buckwheat hull) carbonate.