Modified activated carbon by air oxidation as a potential adsorbent for furfural removal.

This study used heat-activated carbon (350 °C in the air) for the adsorption and removal of furfural from wastewater. The characteristics of air oxidation activated carbon (ACAOx) were tested. The results indicated that oxygen-containing functional groups were generated, with 1306 m²/g BET surface area of ACAOx. Salt concentration, temperature, and initial pH slightly affected the adsorption of furfural. Furfural removal efficiency was dependent on the dosage of ACAOx. The intra-particle and boundary-layer diffusions were likely contributed to the rate-limiting mechanisms of furfural adsorption. The activated carbon via air oxidation emerged as an acceptable and cost-effective adsorbent for furfural from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]