Low-temperature synthesis of functionalized activated carbon from blackboard (Alstonia scholaris) with improved selectivity for 2-methylpyridine removal: batch and column analyses.

Coal tar industry has been reported to discharge 2-methylpyridine (2Mp) in concentrations up to 150 mg L. For removal of 2Mp, activated carbon was synthesized from blackboard tree ground bark (BA) by the novel technique of prior cooling (which helped decrease heat generation and volatile gas emission). The material was successfully functionalized with carboxylic group which enhanced 2Mp uptake.