In this study, the characterizations of powdered activated carbon fiber treated with potassium (KPACFs) systems by nitrogen adsorption, SEM-EDX, UV/VIS, Boehm titration and removal efficiencies of pollutants by variation of pH are presented. From the adsorption and surface analysis, it is shown that the ACF samples prepared by treatment with aqueous solutions containing potassium ions or salts have a more heterogeneous micropore structure. SEM images and EDX spectra show a homogeneous distribution of potassium salts on the large body fiber surface and the presence of C, O and P. Quantitative analyses of surface species including oxygen groups are determined by FT-IR and Boehm's titration methods. Finally, the color, total nitrogen (T-N) and total phosphate (T-P) removal performance of piggery waste dispersed with KPACFs is investigated and these results are acceptable for the final disposal of the treated effluent depending on pH.

Keywords: KPACFs; isotherm; SEM; EDX; UV/VIS; Boehm's titration method