Effect of Surface Characteristics on Adsorption of Methyl Mercaptan on Activated Carbons

Activated carbons of different origins were studied as methyl mercaptan adsorbents in wet conditions. To broaden the spectrum of surface acidity, carbons were oxidized with hydrogen peroxide. The surface properties of adsorbents were evaluated using nitrogen adsorption, Boehm titration, potentiometric titration, and thermal analysis. The study was focused on the role of surface chemistry and porosity in the adsorption/oxidation of methyl mercaptan. The results showed that the amount adsorbed depends on the surface features. Although the main product of methyl mercaptan oxidation is dimethyl disulfide, in some cases, oxidation proceeds further, likely leading to the formation of methyl methanethiosulfonate as detected using GC/MS.