Preparation of activated carbon from mangrove propagule waste by H3PO4 activation for Pb2+ adsorption

Activated carbon was prepared from mangrove propagule by chemical activation using H3PO4. In the chemical activation process, the specific surface area increases from 187.18 m2/g to 267.45 m2/g and new pores are created. Furthermore, the activated carbon was used as an adsorbent for the removal of Pb2+ from aqueous solution. Batch studies were performed to address various experimental parameters including pH, contact time, and initial concentration for the removal of Pb2+. Effective pH for Pb2+ removal was 4. The uptake of adsorbate species is fast at initial stages of the contact period, and it becomes slower near the equilibrium. Quasi-equilibrium reached in 180 min.