Functionalization of Activated Carbon Fiber Mat with Bimetallic Active Sites for NH3 and H2S Adsorption at Room Temperature

•Activated carbon fiber mat functionalized by binary metal compounds are prepared for co-removal of NH3 and H2S at room temperature.•The adsorbents possess hierarchical porous structure and uniform dispersion of bimetallic active sites.•NiCl2 could interact with NH3 via acid-base interactions and complexation reactions.•MgO could greatly facilitate the chemical adsorption of H2S due to the strong alkalinity.•The adsorption mechanisms of NH3 and H2S are proposed.