Preparation of cellulose/activated carbon cells: application to the adsorption of cobalt from stagnant waters

Abstract A cellulose/activated carbon combined material is prepared and tested for the adsorption of Co(II) from stagnant waters. This material is easily prepared using two different homemade activated carbons as adsorbents and sanitary paper as cellulose source. Cellulose/activated carbon cells so prepared are thoroughly characterized using multiple methods including optical imaging, tensile tests in dry and wet conditions, thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Afterwards, they are tested for the adsorption of Co(II) from stagnant waters solutions. The results showed that the prepared cells offer good mechanical resistance; the optical microscopy images showed the dispersion of activated carbons grains between cellulose fibres while spectral analysis revealed that the activated carbons keep their chemical properties in the cells. When tested and compared to activated carbons alone for the retention of Co(II) from stagnant waters solutions, the cellulose/activated carbon cells gave better adsorption ratios for both activated carbons (up to double). This study shows an easy way to enhance the efficiency of activated carbons by dispersing their grains within cellulose fibres. Thus the added value of this work is ease of preparation, non-use of harmful chemicals and the economic aspect.