Preparation and characterization of activated carbon obtained from Melaleuca cajuputi leaves

This study aimed to prepare and characterize activated carbon derived from M. cajuputi leaves. The preparation process consisted of physical and chemical activation with phosphoric acid (H3PO4) using various impregnation ratios, which were carbonized in nitrogen under thermal treatment at 500 °C for 45 min. The surface area, pore volume, pore size, and surface morphology were determined using Brunauer-Emmett-Teller and Field Emission Scanning Microscopy to describe the characteristics of the prepared activated carbon; others are percentage yield, moisture content, and pH. The results indicated that the optimum pore volume, micropore, and mesopores were 0.099 m3/g, 66.01 m2/g, and 114 m2/g, respectively, and the BET surface area was 128 m2/g degassed at 300 °C. Field Emission Scanning Microscopy images reveal clear pores, cracks, porous structures, and a diverse surface morphology. The percentage yield was in the range of 33 to 43.7 %, and the pH was maintained in the range of 3 to 5. The ash contents of the prepared carbons in this study initially rose from 1.9 to 3.1 % due to an increase in phosphoric acid. These results conclude that M. cajuputi leaves are an effective precursor to produce the cheapest and most economical activated carbon (adsorbent) that could serve as a substitute for commercial activated carbon. Furthermore, M. cajuputi AC is effective and often considered harmless and nontoxic, which is beneficial when used as an adsorbent for the removal of contaminants from the environment. It is less harmful to human health and the environment compared to chemically hazardous, manufactured adsorbents