Decolorization of Disperse Dyes in Textile Polyester Recycling Using Activated Carbon

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the adsorptive decolorization of a disodium terephthalate solution containing disperse dyes using two activated carbons with distinct pore structures and surface properties. The influence of the point of zero charge (PZC), pore size distribution, and pore volume on decolorization is evaluated. The PZC values of AC‐1 and AC‐2 indicate comparable surface charge behavior under almost neutral conditions. Despite differences in mesopore fraction, both activated carbons seemed to enable effective decolorization of azo and anthraquinone disperse dyes, yielding recycled terephthalic acid (rTA) that meets industrial color specifications on the basis of CIELAB and Hazen color values. Overall, the results highlight the potential of activated carbon treatment for decolorization of disperse dyes and emphasize the importance of tailored adsorbent selection depending on the dye composition.