Activated carbon or activated charcoal is widely used as a purification and filtration medium. It is a high-purity form of carbon popular for its exceptionally high surface area and network of microporous structure. Activated carbon is a highly porous material that removes organic compounds in gases and liquids through the process of adsorption. Its unique properties make it a powerful adsorbent for the purification of liquids and gases, gold recovery, pharmaceutical, and food & beverage applications. In this blog, we discuss what activated carbon is, highlighting its versatility across diverse industrial applications.
Activated Carbon Synonyms: Activated charcoal, active carbon
What is Activated Carbon? The Origin of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is derived from carbonaceous materials like coconut shell, wood, or high-quality coal. Due to its high surface area, porous structure, and high-degree surface reactivity, activated carbon is used to purify, deodorize, decolourize, and dechlorinate liquids and gases. This form of carbon originated centuries ago, but was commercially produced in the 20th century in powder to decolourize sugar. Much later, the activated carbon manufacturers in the world introduced granular activated carbon for water treatment to enhance taste and odour. Over the years, it has been utilized in different fields like air purification, healthcare, water filtration, solvent recovery, and food & beverage applications.
Different Types of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is available in different types and forms. It varies based on raw materials, product form, and properties suitable for different applications. It comes in different forms, primarily granular, powder, and extruded activated carbon.
- Granular Activated Carbon (GAC): These are irregularly shaped granules larger in size. The PFAS removal with granular activated carbon and air purification is one of the most popular applications of GAC.
- Powder Activated Carbon (PAC): This form of carbon is a fine powder with a smaller particle size. Its high surface area and microporous structure enable effective removal of impurities in gas and water treatment.
- Extruded Activated Carbon (EAC): The pelletized form is produced by extruding the carbon into cylindrical pellets. This process imparts superior mechanical strength, consistent shape, and low dust, making EAC ideal for removing contaminants in gas and water streams.
- Coconut Shell Activated Carbon: This form of carbon uses coconut shell as a raw material with high hardness and exceptional chemical & physical characteristics. It can effectively adsorb impurities and contaminants with its microporous structure in portable water purification, precious metal recovery, and catalyst support.
How is Activated Carbon Made?
Activated carbon is produced from carbon-rich materials that undergo a rigorous manufacturing process to achieve precise properties. The process of producing activated carbon begins with charring raw materials like coconut shells, wood, or coal in the absence of oxygen. The activation process begins, which is a crucial phase in forming the internal pore structure. This process is undergone in high-temperature kilns using steam activation, forming a large surface area for power adsorption. The manufacturer of activated charcoal in USA also uses other processes for activation, including chemical activation and physical activation.
How Activated Carbon Works?
Activated carbon works through its massive surface area, which allows it to capture and hold impurities through ‘adsorption’. This process removes the undesired molecules that stick to the surface, effectively removing unwanted molecules from gas or liquid streams. These unique characteristics make activated charcoal suitable for uses like water purification, industrial processes, air treatment, and pharmaceutical applications.
Conclusion
With high adsorption capacity and versatility in various applications, activated carbon plays an important role in diverse industries. From water treatment, food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, to precious metal recovery & air filtration, activated carbon truly pushes the boundary of carbon solutions. At Western Adsorbents & Catalysts, as one of the most trusted activated carbon suppliers in India, we blend our years of expertise with our state-of-the-art production facility to offer our valued clients a range of high-performance activated carbon products worldwide. Our teams work closely with clients to understand unique requirements and tailor products accordingly. Explore the possibilities of activated carbon and how it can enhance your process and products. For quotes, call us.