Effect of pore structure and surface chemistry of virgin activated carbons on removal of hydrogen sulfide Original Research Article

Three activated carbons of various origins were tested as H2S adsorbents, chosen to differ significantly in surface area, pore structure and surface chemistry. The carbons were characterized by sorption of nitrogen and water vapor, potentiometric titration, Boehm titration, and thermal analysis. The results showed that a heterogeneous carbon (having micro- and mesopores) with chemical surface functionality performs better than apparently neutral, predominantly microporous materials with high surface areas. This is thought to be due to the adsorption of water on surface groups which enhances the oxidation of H2S to sulfur or ultimately to sulfuric acid.