Activated carbon is a non-toxic chemical compound used to purify air, water, liquids, and other substances. Thanks to advances in production methods, activated carbon has become a sustainable resource.
This blog will detail the background and history of activated carbon and share how the manufacturing process has become sustainable.
About Activated Carbon
Activated carbon is unique because it adsorbs a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, lead, radon, tastes, gasses, and odors.
Manufacturers create activated carbon by processing char, a substance resulting from exposing biowaste or coal to high temperatures (600 to 900 degrees Celsius) without oxygen. The second step in the process involves exposing the carbon to gasses like argon and nitrogen, as well as steam and oxygen. The carbon is then heated to 600 to 1200 degrees Celsius.
Superheating and chemical exposure create microscopic pores in the carbon. The pores vastly increase the carbon’s surface area, adsorbing contaminants and producing a purified product.
Uses of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon can treat:
Air and Other Gasses
Activated carbon is a popular component of air filters for home and industrial use. As contaminated air moves through the carbon filter, harmful chemicals, vapors, and odors adhere to the granules.
Water
Activated carbon decontaminates water much like air. It can remove organic chemicals, tastes, and other substances.
Petroleum
The substance removes contaminants from petroleum for cleaner burning.
Food and Beverages
Activated carbon removes tastes and odors from sweeteners and alcoholic beverages.
Medical Uses
Activated carbon has a standard application in treating poisoning and digestive upset.
The History of Activated Carbon
Activated carbon from wood may have originated in Egypt before 3750 B.C. Its antibacterial properties made it suitable for medical, burial, and embalming purposes.
By 400 B.C., activated carbon was already being used to purify water. Ancient and medieval physicians used the substance to treat disease and prevent bacterial contamination. Further uses of this product continued to develop over time.
How Activated Carbon Became a Sustainable Resource
While activated carbon was initially sustainable and made from burned wood, coal became a popular component in the early 20th century. While coal is still used today to create activated carbon for selected purposes, most processors use sustainable materials like wood, coconut shells, and other agricultural biowaste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Activated Carbon
Which form of activated carbon should I use?
The type of carbon you need depends on your desired application. Activated carbon comes in different particle sizes that ideally suit various uses. Please call us for assistance in deciding which type of carbon to purchase.
How do I use activated carbon?
You will need an apparatus known as an adsorber or column contactor. This structure allows exposure to the medium being purified.
Call Puragen
Puragen manufactures a range of activated carbon products for diverse industrial uses. Whether you need to filter air, water, gasses, or other substances, activated carbon can provide an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution. To speak with our highly qualified sales team, please call us at 561-725-3671 today.
