2.1. Adsorbent and adsorbates
Activated carbon was purchased from the Calgon Company
(Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA). The bulk density and the porosity
of the adsorbent were 0.64 g/cm3 and 0.4, respectively (obtained
fromthe manufacturer), with the elemental analysis of the
adsorbent quoted at:C¼ 86.5%,O ¼ 6.5%, andH¼ 1.2%(w/w).
Three reactive dyes which have a wide industrial application
were selected, namely; C.I. Reactive Blue 2; C.I. Reactive
Red 4; and C.I. Reactive Yellow 2 (Aldrich Chemicals). The
chemical structures of the dyes are illustrated in Fig.