A process is created for the utilization of biomass by producing carbon ads
orbents and gas. Carbon adsorbents with alkaline character of the surface,
tar and gas products are obtained by steam pyrolysis of biomass (almond she
lls, nut shells, apricot stones, cherry stones, grape seeds). Mixtures of t
ar obtained during this process and furfural are used for obtaining carbon
adsorbents with low ash and sulphur contents and different chemical charact
er of the surface. The chemical character of oxygen functional groups on th
eir surface reveals that they are polyfunctional cationites. Carbon adsorbe
nts obtained have a hydrophilic surface and are suitable for removing metal
ions and other pollutants from water. The gas products can be used as ener
gy source. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.