Adsorption of MCPA, 2,4-D and diuron onto activated carbons from wood composites

Activated carbon adsorbents were produced from particleboard and medium-density fiberboard, industry originated wastes, without value added applications. These materials were characterized, showing a well-developed microporous structure reaching 0.58 cm3/g, and afterwards, their potential application for the removal of phenoxy acetic acids and substituted urea herbicide was evaluated. Studies in liquid phase were conducted in 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy acetic acid (MCPA) and 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (diuron), being the obtained data linearized using the Langmuir and Freundlich equations. Results indicated high removal capabilities for the adsorptives in study, reaching 0.97, 1.37 and 1.87 mmol/g for diuron, 2,4-D, and MCPA respectively, allowing the conclusion that these materials should be studied further, having in mind real life applications.