Other Names:
Activated Charcoal, Active Carbon, Activated Coal, Norit, Carbo Activatus, Graphite, Anthrasorb
Specification Summary
- Purity: ≥98–99%
- Form: Granular, powdered, pelletized, or bead
- CAS No.: 7440-44-0
- Molecular Formula: C
- Molecular Weight: 12.011 g/mol
Product Description
Activated carbon is a highly porous, amorphous form of carbon, typically black in appearance. It is insoluble in water and organic solvents, non-corrosive, and chemically stable under most conditions. Activated carbon is generally neutral to mildly alkaline, with a pH range of 8–11 depending on the source and treatment. Its extraordinarily high surface area and pore structure enable exceptional adsorption of organic and inorganic molecules. The material is non-toxic, non-flammable under normal conditions, and exhibits excellent mechanical strength and abrasion resistance.
Activated Carbon Specification Table
Property | Specification / Typical Value |
Purity (C content) | ≥98–99% |
Appearance | Black powder, granules, pellets |
Surface Area (BET) | 950–1100 m²/g |
Iodine Number | 850–1100 mg/g |
Methylene Blue Number | 230–280 mg/g |
Moisture Content (max) | ≤5% |
Total Ash Content (max) | ≤13% |
Bulk Density | 0.4–0.55 g/cm³ |
Hardness | ≥95% |
pH (in water) | 8–11 |
Particle Size | 0.425–1.70 mm (granular); custom |
Pore Volume | 1.04 cm³/g |
Dechlorination Half Length | 2.2 cm |
Uniformity Coefficient | 1.4 |
Downloadable TDS:
A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, providing detailed specifications, safety, and handling information.
Application Sectors and Industries of Activated Carbon
Water Treatment and Purification
Activated carbon is widely used in municipal and industrial water treatment plants for removing organic contaminants, chlorine, taste, odor, and color from drinking water and wastewater. Its high adsorption capacity ensures compliance with stringent water quality standards and protects public health.
Air and Gas Purification
In air filtration systems, activated carbon adsorbs volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, and hazardous gases. It is essential in HVAC systems, industrial exhaust treatment, and personal protective equipment to maintain clean air and regulatory compliance.
Food and Beverage Industry
Activated carbon is used to decolorize, deodorize, and purify food products such as sugar, edible oils, alcoholic beverages, and juices. It removes unwanted flavors, colors, and contaminants, ensuring product quality and safety.
Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
In the pharmaceutical sector, activated carbon is used for purification of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products. It is also an essential ingredient in medicinal charcoal for treating poisoning and overdoses due to its high adsorption of toxins.
Chemical Manufacturing
Activated carbon plays a key role in solvent recovery, purification of process streams, and removal of impurities in chemical synthesis. It enhances product purity and process efficiency in various chemical industries.
Mining and Metallurgy
The material is crucial in gold recovery (carbon-in-pulp and carbon-in-leach processes), metal purification, and removal of cyanides and other contaminants from mining effluents, improving yield and environmental safety.
Environmental Remediation
Activated carbon is used in soil and groundwater remediation projects to adsorb organic pollutants, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, aiding in site cleanup and regulatory compliance.
Automotive and Transportation
It is integrated into cabin air filters, emission control systems, and fuel vapor recovery units to reduce pollutants and improve air quality inside vehicles.
Electronics and Energy Storage
Activated carbon is used in supercapacitors, batteries, and gas storage systems due to its high surface area, electrical conductivity, and stability, supporting advanced energy technologies.
Laboratory and Analytical Sciences
In laboratories, activated carbon is used in chromatography, sample preparation, and purification processes, ensuring accurate analytical results and high-purity reagents.
Packaging Types
- Sachets and Small Packets:Single-use sachets made with nonwoven fabric, waterproof paper, or mesh, suitable for electronics, medical supplies, and precision instruments.
- 25 kg HDPE Bags:Standard packaging for industrial and commercial use, ensuring safe handling and storage.
- Bulk Bags (500–1,100 kg):Large woven sacks or super sacks for high-volume industrial applications, offering efficient transport and storage.
- Drums and Barrels:Rigid containers for secure storage and easy dispensing in manufacturing environments.
- Custom Packaging:Tailored solutions including continuous sachets, double-sided tape, and printed packaging to meet specific industry or regulatory requirements.
Activated carbon’s unmatched adsorption capabilities and versatility make it indispensable across a wide array of industries and applications. For detailed handling, safety, and technical information, please refer to the downloadable Technical Data Sheet (TDS).
