Colloid-Chemical Fundamentals OF Producing Carbon Adsorbents From Secondary Thermoplastics AND Thermosetting Resins

The transformation of polymer waste into value-added carbon adsorbents represents a sustainable and efficient solution to both environmental pollution and material scarcity. This study investigates the colloid-chemical fundamentals underlying the synthesis of carbon adsorbents from secondary thermoplastics and thermosetting resins. Polystyrene and epoxy resin were selected as model polymers due to their structural differences and availability in post-consumer waste streams. The materials underwent thermal carbonization in an inert nitrogen atmosphere at 600–800°C, followed by chemical activation using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). Surface properties and porosity development were analyzed using zeta potential measurements and Boehm titration. The results indicated that thermosetting-derived carbons exhibited higher structural stability and uniform porosity, while thermoplastic-derived carbons showed a wider distribution of pore sizes. Functional groups such as hydroxyl (–OH), carboxyl (–COOH), and lactone were identified, contributing to the adsorption performance. Chemical equations for surface functionalization and activation mechanisms were proposed. The combination of colloid-chemical insight and material engineering provides a pathway to optimize porous carbon materials for environmental applications.

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