Biobased Activated Carbon and Its Application

The increasing environmental concerns regarding the depletion of fossil resources and the excessive production of waste have shifted attention toward sustainable materials derived from renewable resources. Biobased activated carbon (BAC), derived from biomass, has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional fossil-derived activated carbon (AC), offering numerous advantages in terms of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and wide-ranging applications. The production process of BAC involves the carbonization of biomass materials followed by activation, which enhances its porosity and surface area. These characteristics make BAC highly effective for applications in water and air purification, energy storage, and environmental remediation. In water treatment, BAC is used to remove pollutants like heavy metals, organic contaminants, and microplastics through adsorption. In air purification, it helps eliminate harmful gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, BAC has emerged as a key material in energy storage technologies, particularly in supercapacitors, due to its high surface area and electrical conductivity. Its use in soil amendment and environmental remediation is also gaining attention for removing toxic substances from contaminated environments. The development of BAC is aligned with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and promote circular economies. Its versatility and sustainability make BAC a promising material in addressing environmental challenges while providing an alternative to fossil fuel-derived products. This chapter will cover all the possible applications where BAC is being used.