Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a highly porous form of carbon with a large surface area per unit volume. The term “activated” refers to the activation process, which involves treating carbon material, such as wood, coconut shells, or sawdust, at high temperatures (typically 600 to 1200 degrees Celsius) in the presence of gases like steam or air. This process creates a network of pores and increases the material’s surface area.
How Activated Carbon Works
The activated carbon structure is characterized by a vast number of tiny pores, including micropores, mesopores, and macropores. These pores provide an extensive surface area for adsorption—a process where molecules and ions adhere to the surface. Activated carbon is highly effective in adsorbing various substances, including gases, vapors, and liquids, making it valuable in numerous applications.
Key uses of activated carbon
Its versatility and ability to selectively adsorb different compounds make it a widely used material in various industries.
| Application / Industry |
Description |
| Water Purification |
Removing impurities and contaminants from the waste water. |
| Air and Gas Purification |
Capturing odors and pollutants from the air and gas. |
| Chemical Processing |
Purifies chemicals, solvents, intermediates and decolorization by adsorbing impurities, achieving high purity. |
| Food and Beverage Processing |
Decolorizes syrups remove off-flavors and odors from beverages and purifies edible oils. |
| Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare |
Purifies medications, filters process fluids, aids in toxin removal and treating certain poisonings in healthcare applications. |
| Sugar Refining |
Enhances the purity of sugar by removing color compounds and impurities from raw sugar syrup using activated carbon. |
Production Process of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon production involves a multi-step process, typically starting with a carbonaceous material like coconut shells, wood, lignite, or coal. Here’s a generalized overview of the production process:
Selection of Raw Material
Different raw materials can be used, each influencing the properties of the final activated carbon. Common sources include coal, coconut shells, or wood.
Carbonization
The chosen material undergoes a carbonization process, where it is heated in the absence of air at temperatures typically between 600 and 1200 degrees Celsius. This drives off volatile compounds and leaves behind a carbon-rich material.
Activation
The carbonized material undergoes activation through two methods: Chemical (impregnation and heating) and Physical (exposure to high temperatures with steam or carbon dioxide).
Washing / Impregnation
The activated carbon is cooled and then thoroughly washed to remove any remaining impurities, unreacted activating agents, or by-products from the activation process.
Sizing and Crushing
The activated carbon may be sized or crushed to achieve specific particle sizes based on the intended application. This step ensures uniformity and optimal performance.
Drying
The final product is dried to reduce moisture content, enhancing its stability and shelf life.
Quality Control
Quality control measures are implemented throughout the production process to ensure that the activated carbon meets specified standards and performance criteria.
Types of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon comes in various types, each designed for specific applications. The main types include:
Extruded activated carbon, shaped into pellets or cylindrical forms, offers a balance of mechanical strength and adsorptive capacity. This type is well-suited for gas-phase applications where the material may experience pressure or wear. Extruded carbon finds applications in air purification systems, removing pollutants and noxious gases. Its durability ensures a more extended service life, making it a cost-effective solution for industries where the demand for consistent performance is high, such as automotive emissions control.
GAC, available in granular form with diverse mesh sizes, caters to a wide range of applications. Its larger particle size allows for prolonged contact time with the adsorbate, making it particularly effective in continuous flow systems. In water treatment, GAC is commonly used to address a spectrum of contaminants, including chlorine, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds. Its adaptability and longevity make it a preferred choice for municipal water treatment plants and industrial processes.
PAC, due to its fine particle size, boasts an impressive surface area per unit volume. This characteristic makes it highly effective for rapid adsorption in applications where a swift reaction is crucial. In water treatment, PAC excels at removing dissolved organic matter, pollutants, and undesirable tastes and odors. Its versatility extends to industries requiring a high degree of purification, such as pharmaceuticals and food processing.
Activated Carbon Specifications
Activated carbon specifications ensure optimal performance and suitability for specific applications. These specifications outline various characteristics of activated carbon, including physical, chemical, and adsorptive properties.
| |
Form / Shape |
Size / Grade |
Density |
Iodine Number |
Ash Content |
Moisture As Packed |
| Powder Activated Carbon |
Fine Powder |
|
350 – 550 Kg/m³ |
800 – 1500 mg/g |
0.5 – 10 wt% |
0.5 – 8 wt% |
| Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) |
Granules |
- 12X40 mesh (0.40 – 1.68 mm)
- 8X30 mesh (0.59 – 2.38 mm)
- 6X12 mesh (1.68 – 3.36 mm)
- 4X8 mesh (2.38 – 4.76 mm)
- Customized granular sizes are available
|
400 – 550 Kg/m³ |
800 – 1400 mg/g |
1 – 15 wt% |
1 – 10 wt% |
| Extruded Activated Carbon |
Pellets / Extrudates |
- 0.9 mm
- 1.5 mm
- 1.8 mm
- 2.0 mm
- 3.0 mm
- 4.0 mm
- 5.0 mm
- Customized pellet sizes are available
|
430 – 650 Kg/m³ |
800 – 1200 mg/g |
1 – 15 wt% |
1 – 10 wt% |
Enhance your purification processes with high-quality activated carbon. Contact us today for expert advice and customized solutions.
