Understanding the mechanism of two-step, pyrolysis-alkali chemical activation of fibrous biomass for the production of activated carbon fibre matting

Pyrolysis of fibrous biomass followed by alkali (KOH and K2CO3) chemical activation the pyrolysis char for production activated carbon fibre matting material has been investigated. For KOH, initially involved melting KOH reaction with disorganised/volatile char, producing hydrogen gas K2CO3 further developing existing pore structure char. At higher temperatures (>700 °C), widening occurs due to physical less molten phase Metallic potassium or other species may also contribute process. Chemical at (>600 °C) is controlled decomposition K2O CO2. The development surface area porosity through CO2, enhances leading pores. results in micropores low temperatures, temperatures. activation, creation occur simultaneously temperature, resulting a lower micropore volume wider size distribution.