‎PRODUCTION OF ACTIVATED CARBON FROM MILK BUSH ‎(THEVETIA PERUVIANA) SEEDS

This study investigates the production of activated carbon from Thevetia peruviana seeds through carbonization and activation processes. The produced activated carbon is characterized using surface area analysis, pore size distribution analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The potential applications of this activated carbon include water treatment, air purification, and industrial processes. a two-step process involving physical and chemical activation. The seeds were collected, cleaned, dried, and then subjected to carbonization and activation processes. The activation parameters, including temperature, duration, and impregnation ratio, were optimized to achieve a high surface area and pore volume. The produced activated carbon was characterized using various techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy. From the results obtained, it was discovered that the Thevetia peruviana has Graphite, Marialite, Epsomite, Aluminium Phosphate, Quartz and Clinochlore; crystalline phases from the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Similarly, results obtained from the X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis shows that the activated carbon produced has Pb, Cd, C, Hg. Also, from the result obtained from the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis, It was discovered that the activated carbon has the following elemental composition which includes Carbo, Chlorin, Calcium, Potassium, Phosphorus, Sodium, Iron, Aluminium, Silicon, Sulfur, Titanium Concentration by weight. Lastly, the result obtained from the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) shows the peak and qualitative analysis result of the activated carbon. The results show that the activated carbon exhibits a high surface area, narrow pore size distribution, and strong adsorption performance. The study recommends the utilization of Thevetia peruviana seeds for activated carbon production, which can contribute to a sustainable economy, a healthy environment, and improved public health.