Study of Characterization of Activated Carbon from Coconut Shells on Various Particle Scales as Filler Agent in Composite Materials

Abstract

Activated carbon (AC) derived from coconut shells (CS-AC) was obtained through pyrolysis at 700℃ and subsequently activated with H 3 PO 4 . AC was ground in a Wiley mill several times to form powder particles at particle scales of 80, 100, and 200 meshes. The characterization of the AC was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and surface area analysis (S BET ). The CS-AC-200 mesh resulted in a higher percentage of mesopores and surface area. This particle size had a larger surface area with angular, irregular, and crushed shapes in the SEM view. The smaller particles had smoother surfaces, less wear, and increased curing depth and ratio of the hardness of the resin composite. Based on the characterization results of the AC, it is evident that CS-AC with a 200 mesh particle size has the potential to be used as a filler in biocomposites.