Structural and microstructural properties of Neem husk and seed carbon activated with zinc chloride and phosphoric acid

Alau Kenneth K, Gimba Casimir

Abstract

The seed and husk of Neem (Azadirachta indica) are biowastes which have been modified by carbonization and activating it with ZnCl2 and H3PO4, to enhance their surface and structural properties, for subsequent application as adsorbent for environmental remediation. Fourier transform Infrared, Scanning electron microscopy, Brauner Emmett Teller and Thermal gravimetric analysis have been carried out to investigate changes and differences in the structure and microstructure of these adsorbents. These techniques indicates that the materials are good and excellent for adsorption purposes.