Activated Carbon (Granular) - China

Brief Overview

Activated carbon, also referred to as activated charcoal or activated coal, constitutes a type of carbon characterized by its minute pores of small size and capacity, thereby amplifying the available surface area. This enlarged surface area serves to facilitate adsorption or chemical reactions. The heightened surface area inherent in activated carbon renders it apt for adsorption—a process wherein particles such as atoms, ions, or gas, liquid, and solid molecules are attracted and affixed to a surface. These particles become ensnared within the internal pore structure of the carbon through electrostatic attraction or chemisorption. This capacity for adsorption endows activated carbon with a pivotal role across various industries by aiding in the elimination of hazardous substances in chemical processes, catalyzing chemical reactions, and serving as a carrier for biomass and chemicals.

Manufacturing Process

Activated carbon is commonly derived from either coconut shell charcoal or coal. The creation of activated carbon involves subjecting the material to a controlled burning process in a tightly sealed environment, specifically designed to induce only the pyrolysis process.

The transformation of the material into activated carbon fundamentally involves opening the pores of the carbon charcoal, which initially possesses an area of 2 m2/g, expanding it to a range of 300-2000 m2/g, thereby earning the designation of activated charcoal. This activation process can be achieved through two methods: employing a mild oxidation reaction utilizing water vapor at temperatures between 900-1000°C or through dehydration facilitated by chemicals or salts.

Water Treatment Industry

Presently, activated carbon has found extensive application in the water treatment sector, encompassing groundwater restoration and the treatment of service water. Typically, activated carbon is employed either in powder or granular formats, selected based on the particular application requirements and process nuances.