Synthesis and Characterization of Sulfonated Activated Carbon-Derived from Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) as Solid Acid Catalyst for Production of Bioethanol

Abstract

An abundant amount of oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) is generated by the agricultural industry, prompting the need for sustainable waste utilization. In Malaysia, a total dry matter (TDM) of oil palm exceeding 55 tonnes per hectare is generated, which forms part of environmental issues as a majority of the biomass remains unused and usually discarded through burning or open dumping. Although it can be converted to value-added products like bioethanol or activated carbon, its efficient use is not fully done. This study aims to convert OPEFB into sulfonated activated carbon (SAC) to serve as a solid acid catalyst for the hydrolysis of cellulose into glucose, and subsequently, for bioethanol production. The effect of catalyst loading was also investigated.