Sustainable Production of Activated Carbon from Jackfruit Waste: A Potential Multifunctional Resource

Abstract

Activated carbon derived from natural sources such as agricultural wastes has gained attention due to the expensive and poor performance of activated carbon derived from polymer and synthetic materials. These alternative sources of carbon offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for various applications in different fields. The importance of jackfruit-based activated carbon in numerous fields is the main subject of this analysis. Jackfruit waste, including the peel, wood, pulp, and leaves, is a by-product of the jackfruit processing industry that generates a large amount of waste aiming to address both environmental and economic challenges associated with waste disposal. This study presents novel techniques for transforming this organic waste into high-quality activated carbon through a series of pyrolysis and activation processes. The significance of this finding lies in the dual benefits it offers: waste management and resource recovery. By converting jackfruit waste into activated carbon, a valuable adsorbent material is obtained, showcasing potential applications in diverse fields. In the field of wastewater treatment, activated carbon derived from jackfruit waste has shown high efficiency in removing lead ions, with a removal efficiency of approximately 90%. In addition to wastewater treatment, jackfruit-based activated carbon also demonstrates potential applications in other fields. In the field of heavy metal ion adsorption, jackfruit-based activated carbon has been found to selectively remove heavy metals such as nickel and chromium from aqueous solutions with high adsorption capacities. Also, jackfruit-based activated carbon has shown great potential as an adsorbent for organic pollutants, such as phenols and chlorophenols, in water and wastewater treatment. Furthermore, the activated carbon derived from jackfruit waste demonstrates promise in fields beyond environmental remediation. Its high porosity and surface area make it an excellent candidate for energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors. Additionally, its potential as a catalyst support in industrial processes highlights the versatility of this sustainable material. This research introduces a holistic and sustainable approach to managing jackfruit waste by converting it into activated carbon. The multifaceted applications of the resultant activated carbon emphasize its potential as a valuable resource for environmental, energy, and industrial applications, fostering a circular economy and promoting sustainable development. © 2025 selection and editorial matter Ho Soon Min, Heri Septya Kusuma, and Yogesh Chandra Sharma; individual chapters, the contributors.