Highlyporous activated carbons (ACs) wereprepared fromMongolianraw anthracite (MRA)using sodium
hydroxide as an activation agent by varying the mass ratio (powdered MRA/NaOH) as well as the mixing
method of chemical agent and powdered MRA. The specific BET surface area and total pore volume of the
prepared MRA-based activated carbons (MACs) are in the range of 816–2063 m2/g and of 0.55–1.61 cm3/g,
respectively. The pore size distribution of MACs show that most of the pores are in the range from large
micropores to small mesopores and their distribution can be controlled by the mass ratio and mixing
method of the activating agent. As expected from the intrinsic property of the MRA, the highly graphitic
surface morphology of prepared carbons was confirmed from Raman spectra and transmission electron
microscopy (TEM) studies. Furthermore the FTIR and XPS results reveal that the preparation of MACs
with hydrophobic in nature is highly possible by controlling the mixing conditions of activating agent
and powdered MRA. Based on all the results, it is suggested that the prepared MACs could be used for
many specific applications, requiring high surface area, optimal pore size distribution, proper surface
hydrophobicity as well as strong physical strength.