Modification of activated carbon fiber by metal dispersion and surface functionalization for the removal of 2-chloroethanol

Abstract

Nickel-impregnated phenolic resin precursor-based activated carbon fiber (ACF) was functionalized with pyridine and investigated for the adsorptive removal of 2-chloroethanol. Adsorption tests were carried out under flow conditions for different gas flow rates, solute concentrations, and temperatures in a perforated tubular adsorber. Various analytical and spectroscopic techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and CHNSO elemental analysis, were used to characterize the adsorbents that have been prepared in this study. The results showed that the ACFs adsorbed significant amounts of 2-chloroethanol. Temperature had adverse effects on adsorption. At metallic concentrations in excess of 0.4 M of nickel, the formation of metal crystallites occurred, causing blockage of the pores and a decrease in the number of active metal sites. The functionalization of ACFs by pyridine was shown to produce a basic surface, resulting in the enhanced adsorption of the organic solute. The results have applications in the preparation of effective ACF-based adsorbents for controlling the emission of hazardous organic compounds.