Process for preparing high-adsorption activated carbon from almond shells

Abstract

The present invention describes a novel method for preparing highly adsorbent, regenerable, and reusable activated carbon using an innovative natural waste product from almond farming as a precursor. More specifically, the method involves the chemical activation of almond hulls using a KOH solution, followed by microwave irradiation in the presence of an oxidizing gas. The invention also relates to the advanced oxidation of said activated carbon using nitric acid (HNO3) and treatment with urea (CH₄N₂O). This activated carbon is characterized by its ability to remove a wide range of organic, metallic, and microbial pollutants found in municipal and industrial wastewater, as well as by its capacity to improve the organoleptic properties of water.