Cu(II) Adsorption from Aqueous Solution Using K2CO3-Activated Carbon Derived from Chenopodium botrys: A Sustainable Approach

This study focuses on the manufacture of a new activated carbon from Chenopodium botrys by potassium carbonate (K2CO3) activation. The physicochemical characteristics of the prepared activated carbon were analyzed using FT-IR, EDX, and SEM techniques, confirming some porous structure rich in functional groups that enhance adsorption performance. Optimum parameters were determined to carry out adsorption studies under the most efficient conditions. A pseudo-second-order model for the adsorption kinetics suggested that the process was driven by chemisorption. Multilayer adsorption on a heterogeneous surface was suggested by isotherm investigations, which showed that the Freundlich model offered the best fit. The process's endothermic character was further supported by the rise in adsorption capacity with temperature. These results show that Chenopodium botrys-derived activated carbon has the potential to be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly material for removing Cu(II) from contaminated water sources.