Advances and prospects for adsorption-driven valorization of newspapers using activated carbon: a short review

Abstract

The valorization of newspaper waste through adsorption-driven processes using activated carbon presents a promising avenue for sustainable waste management. This comprehensive review explores the advances and prospects of using activated carbon to enhance the value of newspapers. The fundamental properties of activated carbon, its unique adsorption mechanisms, and its interaction with contaminants commonly found in newspapers, such as ink dyes, heavy metals, and organic pollutants, are also discussed. Applications of activated carbon-treated newspapers span across air and water purification, soil enrichment, and odour control. The paper critically evaluates the environmental benefits of this approach, comparing it with conventional disposal methods. Furthermore, challenges associated with implementing activated carbon-assisted valorization and potential strategies for overcoming them are discussed. Real-world case studies highlight successful projects, shedding light on this innovative waste management solution’s economic viability and technological feasibility. This review concludes by emphasizing the role of adsorption-driven valorization in transforming newspaper waste into a valuable resource, addressing environmental concerns, and shaping future research directions.