Sustainable advances in activated carbon for environmental and industrial applications

Abstract Activated carbon (AC) has garnered widespread attention as a versatile and sustainable material for environmental remediation and industrial applications. This review offers a comprehensive and structured analysis of recent advancements in the synthesis, modification, and application of activated carbon, with an emphasis on sustainable development. The study critically evaluates fabrication techniques—including physical activation, chemical activation, hydrothermal carbonization, and microwave‐assisted methods—using renewable precursors such as agricultural residues, industrial by‐products, and natural biomass. Comparative insights into physical forms (powdered, granular, pellet, and membrane) and their influence on adsorption efficiency are also presented. The paper explores various chemical, physical, and microwave‐assisted modification techniques aimed at enhancing surface area, porosity, and functional selectivity. It highlights the role of pore size distribution (micro‐, meso‐, and macropores) in adsorption dynamics and explains how surface functionalization, metal doping, and nitrogen/sulfur treatments tailor activated carbon for specific contaminants. Applications span multiple domains, including the removal of dyes, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pharmaceuticals, and greenhouse gases like CO 2 . In addition to mapping out practical applications, the study identifies key benefits such as cost‐effectiveness, resource circularity, and regenerability. It also acknowledges prevailing challenges—including environmental concerns associated with chemical activation, material variability, and scale‐up limitations. The manuscript integrates emerging trends in green activation, hybrid composites, nanotechnology, and predictive modeling, providing a forward‐looking roadmap for researchers and industry practitioners. By aligning technological innovation with environmental sustainability, this work establishes activated carbon as a cornerstone material for future eco‐engineered solutions.