Efficacious removal of benzene and ammonia gases over visible light irradiated activated carbon

Removal efficiencies of benzene and ammonia were studied using as-received commercial activated carbon (AC) at 0%, 30%, and 60% relative humid (RH) conditions with and without visible light irradiation. We showed that light enhanced the removal efficiency of benzene even under nitrogen, and the enhancement effect became more pronounced in the presence of H2O and O2. We also demonstrated that the ammonia removal efficiency can be enhanced by visible light irradiation under optimum humidity conditions. We further suggested more efficient migration of NH3 through the nanoporous channels of AC facilitated by light and water. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses addressed the changes in surface structure of AC caused by oxidizing agents such as OH. radicals created with light irradiation and other reagents.

Automated summary

The removal efficiencies of benzene and ammonia using commercial activated carbon were studied under different relative humidity conditions and with or without visible light irradiation. The results showed that light could enhance the removal efficiency of benzene even under nitrogen, and the effect was more significant in the presence of water and oxygen. It was also found that visible light irradiation could enhance the ammonia removal efficiency under optimal humidity conditions. The study further suggested that light and water facilitated more efficient migration of NH3 through the nanoporous channels of activated carbon. Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses revealed the changes in surface structure of activated carbon caused by oxidizing agents generated with light irradiation and other reagents.