Activated Carbons Derived from Hydrothermally Carbonized\nSucrose: Remarkable Adsorbents for Adsorptive Desulfurization

Abstract

Activated carbons derived from hydrothermal\ncarbonization of sucrose\nand subsequent KOH activation have been prepared and tested for the\nadsorptive removal of refractory thiophenic compounds. Textural and\nchemical properties of the carbons and their corresponding impacts\non adsorption rates and capacities were discussed in detail. The optimum\ncarbon possessed high adsorption capacity (41.5 mgS/g for 300 ppmwS\nmodel oil), fast adsorption rate (97% saturated within 5 min) as well\nas relatively good selectivity for the adsorption of thiophenic compounds\ndue to the abundant small micropores, suitable mesopore fraction and\nvarious oxygen functionalities present in the carbon. Combined with\nthe economic and environmental merits of the preparation procedure,\nthe sucrose-derived activated carbons are promising candidates for\npotential practical applications.