Abstract
Potassium-doped activated carbon was prepared by mixing potassium salt with polyfurfuryl
alcohol precursor followed by carbonization and activation. Several experimental techniques,
such as thermogravimetric analysis, gas adsorption, X-ray diffraction and Raman
scattering spectroscopy were employed to understand the effects of potassium on the texture
and pore structures of the activated carbon, which ultimately affects the hydrogen
adsorption properties. After doping with potassium, the activated carbon exhibits higher
surface area, higher micropore volume, and enhanced hydrogen adsorption capacity.
Understanding of how alkali metals affect surface area and micropore development in activated
carbon may help to clarify the hydrogen adsorption mechanism and improve the
design of suitable carbon-based hydrogen storage materials.
