XRD Characterization of Activated Carbons Synthesized from Tyre Pyrolysis Char via KOH Activation

The structural modification of tyre-derived activated carbon (TDAC) after chemical activation is not sufficiently recognised yet, especially regarding its crystallinity and porosity. This study examined the development of the crystal structure of TDAC by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, concentrating on critical parameters like interplanar distance (d(002)), crystallite size (Lc), and crystalline percentage. Mixed tyres were pyrolysed at 550 °C to produce char and then chemically activated with KOH at different ratios and temperatures, thereafter undergoing structural characterisation. The results indicate that TDAC is mostly non-graphitizing, maintaining a disordered turbostratic structure even after activation. The widening of the (002) XRD peak and the lack of distinct (hkl) diffraction peaks validate its amorphous characteristics. Higher activation levels lead to an expanded surface area with decreasing crystallite size, signifying a shift towards higher disorder. This research examined the relationship among activation factors, porosity, and structural alterations, emphasising the compromise between crystallinity and surface area.