Microwave-assisted preparation and characterization of mesoporous activated carbon from mushroom roots by phytic acid (C6H18O24P6) activation

The present study explored the viability of preparing activated carbon from phytic acid (PA, C6H18O24P6) activation of mushroom roots (MR) via microwave irradiation. Effects of impregnation ratio (IR, g PA: g MR of 1:1, 1.5:1, 2:1) and radiation power (600, 700 and 800W) on porous activated carbon evolution were investigated. The surface area and porous property, surface morphology, and surface chemistry of activated carbons were investigated by nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Boehm's titration. The yields obtained at all conditions were relatively high, from similar to 47% to similar to 59%. Well-developed mesoporous structure was prepared with the maximum surface area up to 1024 m(2)/g (IR = 1.5:1, 800 W). With increasing IR, the mesoporous structure of the activated carbons was more developed, with S-ext/S-mic up to 95% at IR of 2. The produced activated carbons also showed favorable to surface chemistry with surface acidity higher than 1.85 mmol/g. The amounts of total surface functional groups were more approachable with IR increasing. These findings provide a strong evidence to support the potential of developing activated carbon alternatives from PA activation of MR via microwave irradiation. (C) 2016 Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.