Production and characterization of activated carbon from corn cobs for color removal in tomato juice

Abstract

The production of activated carbon from agricultural waste, such as corn cob, has gained significant attention due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. This study investigates the influence of activation conditions, specifically the percentage of activating agent (Zink Chloride) and the activation temperature on the physicochemical properties of activated carbon derived from corn cob, an abundant agricultural by-product. A series of experiments were conducted using different Zncl 2 concentrations (0, 25, 50 and 75 %) and activation temperatures (500, 600, and 700°C). Results indicated that both activation parameters significantly influenced the physicochemical properties of the activated carbon. Higher activation temperatures and moderate Zncl 2 concentrations enhanced microspore development, leading to improve adsorption performance. The optimal conditions were identified as 50 % Zncl 2 and an activation temperature of 600°C, yielding a high-quality activated carbon with a well-developed pore structure and excellent adsorption properties. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing the production of activated carbon from corn cob for environmental and industrial applications and also the potential of corn cob as a sustainable precursor for activated carbon production and provides insights into optimizing activation parameters for improved material performance.