PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ACTIVATED CARBON FROM FLUTED PUMPKIN ( TELFAIRIA OCCIDENTALIS HOOK.F) SEED SHELL

Abstract

Ten samples of activated carbon were successfully prepared by carbonization and activation of fluted pumpkin seed shell. Thermal activation was achieved at 300°C, 400°C, 500°C, 600°C and 700°C, while chemical activation was achieved by first impregnating the prepared raw material with activating reagents, and then carbonization at 500°C. Characteristics of the activated carbons were determined using standard methods. Increasing the activation temperature from 300°C to 700°C showed improved characteristics and optimum temperature for production of activated carbon was obtained at 500°C after 2 hours. The iodine values for physically prepared carbons were generally lower, compared to chemically prepared carbons. Phosphate removal efficiency and rates of phosphate removal were satisfactory for all prepared activated carbons though the chemically prepared samples had higher efficiencies. Results reveal that quality activated carbon could be produced from this agro waste.