Characterization techniques for carbon-based adsorbents and carbon composites

Abstract Adsorption processes are crucial in various applications, especially water and wastewater treatment. The research is focused on improving and developing adsorbent materials. An in-depth evaluation of a recently suggested adsorbent is essential to determine its characteristics, confirm its suitability, and understand its effectiveness in the intended process. Various approaches can be engaged to collect multiple physico-chemical data, with the selection of the methodology contingent on the substance under investigation and the instruments at hand. The accessible procedures include, FTIR, Raman, XPS, EDX, XRD, SEM/FESEM, TEM, AFM, VSM, DLS, and thermoanalytical techniques (TGA, DSC). These methods aid in identifying, locating, and quantifying chemical components. They also enable the analysis of the structure, topography, morphology, magnetic properties, and size, as well as other physical characteristics of materials. This information is valuable for assessing the manufacturing and modification of adsorbent materials and studying the adsorption process by examining the interactions between the adsorbent and the adsorbate. This work aims to offer an inclusive resource for investigators exploring adsorbent resources. It attempts to help them choose the most suitable characterization methods according to their specific needs.