KOH molecules can easily come into contact with the outer surface of the char. Moreover, the organic substances are converted into rich carbon structure which allows the material to be subjected to more KOH activation. The produced activated carbon is more susceptible to chemical reaction with KOH, which consequently leads to the formation of a higher degree of mesopores and micropores.
It's can producing of well porosity and a high specific surface area.
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) has been widely used as an activator for preparing activated carbon. Despite producing well developed porosity and a high specific surface area. KOH molecules can easily come into contact with the outer surface of the char. Moreover, the organic substances are converted into rich carbon structure which allows the material to be subjected to more KOH activation. The produced activated carbon is more susceptible to chemical reaction with KOH, which consequently leads to the formation of a higher degree of mesopores and micropores.
The activated carbon produced is highly microporous and its applications for the removal of macro-pollutants in air and water. There is also considerable concern over the use of KOH as an activating agent because of its toxicity and detrimental impacts on humans and the environment.
During carbonization, KOH acts as
a dehydrating agent, to eliminate the presence of water in the
precursor, which thereafter would cause the formation of tar that
could clog the pores.