The optimum conditions for preparation of activated carbon by
the microwave method was of 980W power, a holding time of
12 min, and ratio of ZnCl2:sludge of 0.5. Under these conditions, an
SBET of 501 m2 g−1 was obtained. Optimum conditions for conventional
furnace pyrolysis were a pyrolysis temperature of 500 °C, a
holding time of 15 min, and ratio of ZnCl2:sludge of 0.5. Under these
conditions, a SBET of 679 m2 g−1 was achieved.