A New Generation of Sludge-Based Adsorbents for H sub(2)S Abatement at Room Temperature

• Published in: Environmental science & technology 2007-06, Vol.41 (12), p.4375-4375
• Main Authors: Ros, Anna, Lillo-Rodenas, MAngeles, Canals-Batlle, Carla, Fuente, Enrique, Montes-Moran, Miguel A, Martin, Maria J, Linares-Solano, Angel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0013-936X; 1520-5851
• DOI: 10.1021/es062358m

The present paper discusses H sub(2)S removal by a new generation of sewage-sludge-derived materials which are characterized by their outstanding textural properties when compared to previous materials obtained by pyrolysis and/or activation of similar precursors. Alkaline hydroxide activation was used to prepare adsorbents/catalysts covering a wide range of porosities (S sub(BET) values from 10 to 1300 m super(2) g super(-1)). Our results outline that textural properties are important for H sub(2)S abatement. However, not only highly porous sorbents, but also a high metallic content and a basic pH of these materials are required to achieve good performances. Proper combinations of textural properties and alkalinity render superior performances with retention values (x/M) as high as 456 mg of H sub(2)S removed per g of material. These retention capacities outperform previously published data for sewage-sludge derived materials and those achieved with commercial materials (including some activated carbons). Sulfur titration shows that most H sub(2)S is removed in the form of elemental sulfur, especially in the sewage/NaOH materials.