Synergic effect of mixed ZnO and CuO nanoparticles supported on activated carbon for H2S adsorption at room temperature

Novel sorbents for reactive adsorption of H2S from reformate gas or biogas at room temperature were successfully prepared by dispersing mixed Zn and Cu oxides nanoparticles onto a commercial activated carbon at fixed total metal loading (10% wt.) and Cu:Zn ratios ranging from 0:1 to 1:1. The textural properties of the activated carbon support were preserved after deposition of the active phase, confirming a very effective dispersion level obtained via impregnation with metal nitrates solution. Functionalized sorbents showed a significant larger adsorption capacity than the raw activated carbon. The high utilization factor of the active phase further increased with Cu substitution level for Zn, which was assigned to the higher dispersion of the metal oxides, the promoting effect of Cu and a favorable interaction with the support, leading to the formation of both metal sulphates and sulphides.