Preparation of high-surface-area PAN-based activated carbon by solution-blowing process for CO2 adsorption

► High-surface-area activated carbon was prepared from ultra-thin PAN fibers. ► XPS results confirm that nitrogen groups are present on the surface of carbon. ► Stabilization temperature has a significant effect on CO2 adsorption. ► Textural properties and nitrogen functionality influence CO2 adsorption capacity. ► Gravimetric equilibrium capacity of 5.53 mmol g−1 for N2/CO2 (85/15 v/v) at 323 K.