Characteristics of Plastic Waste-Based Activated Carbon: A Preliminary Review

Abstract

This review encompasses an overview of the existing literature related to the transformation of solid plastic waste into activated carbon for wastewater treatment and explores its diverse applications. The transformation of plastic waste into activated carbon has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to address two critical environmental issues, which are plastic waste management and wastewater treatment. The literature reveals various techniques employed to transform solid plastic waste into activated carbon. Studies emphasize the favourable properties of plastic waste-based activated carbon, including high surface area and porosity, enabling effective adsorption of pollutants in wastewater. The material has demonstrated promising results in removing contaminants such as dyes, pharmaceuticals and heavy metals. Additionally, its diverse applications extend beyond wastewater treatment to include air purification, energy storage and catalyst support.