THE INFLUENCE OF CaCl₂, ZnCl₂, AND Na₂CO₃ ACTIVATORS ON THE IODINE ADSORPTION CAPACITY OF ACTIVATED CARBON FROM CAESALPINIA SAPPAN WOOD

This study aims to evaluate the influence of three chemical activators, namely CaCl₂, ZnCl₂, and Na₂CO₃, on the iodine adsorption capacity of activated carbon derived from Caesalpinia sappan wood. This wood was chosen for its high lignocellulosic content and antioxidant-rich brazilin, which may facilitate the production of highly porous activated carbon. The activation process was carried out using a reactor with varying concentrations of activators, and iodine adsorption capacity was tested according to ASTM-D4607-14 standards. The results revealed that ZnCl₂ exhibited the highest iodine adsorption capacity compared to CaCl₂ and Na₂CO₃, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 1123 mg/g at a 1-gram ratio. This study demonstrates that the choice of activator significantly influences the characteristics and adsorption capacity of activated carbon, which has potential applications in water and gas purification.