Synthesis and Characterization of Activated Carbon from Pinus Halepensis Cone Wastes: Adsorption Prediction as a Function of Some Physicochemical Characteristics of Activated Carbons

Pinus halepensis cone waste (PHCW) was collected from local seeds—Pinus halepensis processing industry. This study investigated the PHCW use as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The synthesis of activated carbon from PHCW was performed as a function of temperature under CO₂ and N₂ flow. The characterization was performed by adsorption–desorption N2 isotherms, FTIR, the point of zero charge, and SEM. Functional acid or basic groups were detected on the surface of activated carbon. For both physical activation and pyrolysis, the maximum value of surface area was obtained at 800 °C. The adsorption–desorption N₂ isotherms of activated carbon under CO₂ and N2 flow showed very similar trend characteristics of a mesoporous framework. The present results suggest that PHCW is a potential source for the synthesis of carbon materials with potential novel applications.