Abstract: Research on preparation of high-surface-area activated carbon (HSA)from extrated Larix gmelinii Rupr. sawdust was investigated. Variables which include: ratio of KOH to material, activation temperature, kind of active agent, way of charging active agent and pre-carbonization on the properties and yield of activated carbon were investigated. N₂ adsorption at 350℃, iodine adsorption capacity and phenol adsorption isotherm were used to determine the pore structure and adsorption capacity of the obtained samples. The results revealed that the extracted sawdust was suitable for preparing HSA. The optimal condition for the preparation was determined as follows: activated at 750℃ for 1 h with ratio of KOH to sawdust 4:1 and precarbonized at 500℃ for 1 h. Specific surface area of HAS prepared under optimal condition was 2 659.4 m²/g, and phenol equilibrium adsorption capacity was 570 mg/g.

Key words: high surface-area, extracted sawdust, activated carbon