The precursor was washed with deionized
water, dried at room temperature for 10 days and then at 80 °C
for 6 hours prior to use in the experiments. The dried sample was
ground and sieved to obtain a uniform particle size. Since the grape
stalks have tin, long and flat structure, the uniform particles would be obtained
in the fraction smaller than 50 mesh. In the preliminary studies,
it was observed that the particles smaller than 80 mesh was carried by
CO2 gas being passed from the activation reactor and clogged the
pipes. Therefore, the particle size of −50 + 80 mesh (0.3–0.177 mm)
was used in the study.
Analytical reagents grade chemicals purchased from Merck were
used in the study.