Influence of the composition of lignocellulosic precusors on the characteristics of the activated carbon produced

Carbon materials, and in particular activated carbons (AC’s), are nowadays one of the most relevant adsorbent materials in our society and in diverse areas of human activity. The major sources of AC are lignocellulosic (LC) materials. The information so far available in the literature about the production of AC’s from LC materials, and concerning the relation between the lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose in the precursor and the AC’s characteristics, seems to be either contradictory or incomplete. The main aim of this project is to clarify this situation. The knowledge to be acquired with the project is very important because it will allow the definition of methodologies that will permit pre-selection of the type of lignocellulosic material most suitable for use as precursor for the production of an AC with specific characteristics and applications. The project objectives will be reached using a broad range of precursors from pure cellulose to lignin.