Removal of VOCs by activated carbon microspheres derived from polymer: a comparative study

It is of great concern to develop a high-efficient adsorbent for removing halomethanes, because they are harmful to human health. In this work, the activated carbon microspheres (ACMs) derived from spherical copolymer of vinylidene chloride and styrene were used to adsorb these hazardous pollutants from gases. The BET surface area of the ACM was 1104 m²/g and mostly dedicated by the micropores between 0.4 and 1.5 nm. The micropore dominating the nature of the ACM renders eminent adsorption capacity. The uniform scales on the surface and expedite passages inside the ACM offer excellent mass transfer performance during adsorption process. To assess the adsorption behavior of the ACM, dynamic adsorption tests were conducted at different temperatures, feed concentrations, and gas velocities. For comparison, a typical commercial activated carbon made from coconut shell was also tested under identical conditions. The results show that the ACM has large adsorption capacity, good adaptability and easy recyclability, which renders high potential and cost-effectiveness for commercial utilization.