Adsorption of phenol from aqueous solution by activated carbons derived from cherry stones

Samples of activated carbon were obtained by physical activation (air, carbon dioxide and steam as activating agents) of cherry stones. Activated carbon samples were characterized from the textural (nitrogen adsorption at 77 K and mercury porosimetry) and surface chemistry (surface oxygen groups and point of zero charge) points of view. Samples were used to adsorb phenol from aqueous solution, showing that phenol uptake was related to the surface area and microporosity. Nevertheless, chemisorption of phenol was favoured by surface oxygen groups. Samples activated in CO2 and steam showed phenol adsorption capacities close to that of Filtrasorb-400, a well-known commercial activated carbon.