Physical Characteristics of Activated Carbon Derived from Durian Shell

Abstract

Durian shells are easily available agricultural by-products and its

large quantities of generation make it a potential source for production

of low cost activated carbon. This study was performed to determine

the characteristics of activated carbon prepared from durian shell. Ultimate

and proximate analysis for raw material was determined. The durian

shell activated carbon was prepared from impregnating the sample in 5,

10, 20 and 30 % (v/v) concentration of phosphoric acid for 24 h, followed

by carbonization at different temperatures in nitrogen atmosphere. The

results showed that various treatment conditions affect the percentage

of yield, surface area and pore structure. The highest BET surface area

1404 m2/g was obtained at 30 % of acid concentration, 500 °C and 20 min

of heating.