Adsorption of organic compounds on activated carbons

Activated carbon is widely applicable as adsorbent in water treatment and air pollution control. This chapter examines the use of this sorbent for organic compounds removal. The manufacture of activated carbon is discussed. Pyrolysis of raw materials and activation methods (physical and chemical) are given. In addition, the physical features such as surface area, pore volume and pore size distribution, and chemical surface structure (surface functional groups) are described. The porosity and surface chemistry of activated carbons strongly affect their adsorption capacity. The removal of organic compounds (phenols, dyes, and pharmaceuticals) is exposed and particular attention is given to the effect of porous texture and chemical structure of activated carbon on the adsorption of organic pollutants.