Chars from gasification of coal and pine activated with K2CO3: Acetaminophen and caffeine adsorption from aqueous solutions

- Chars from coal and pine gasification were activated with K2CO3.
- Carbons properties were not improved by previous thermal and de-ash treatments.
- High ABET values (1578 m2 g−1) were achieved for pine char derived carbons.
- Micropore size distributions rule acetaminophen adsorption process.
- Surface chemistry is determinant for the caffeine affinity towards the solids.