Activated carbon, widely used in filtration and purification processes across various industries, is produced through precisely controlled processes. The production involves converting natural carbonaceous materials into a highly porous substance, giving it exceptional adsorption capabilities. Activated carbon is derived from natural sources such as coconut shells, wood, bituminous coal, peat, and bamboo, undergoing a series of physical and chemical transformations, including carbonization (pyrolysis) and activation.
Pyrolysis (Carbonization):
The first step in activated carbon production involves heating a carbon-rich material to extreme temperatures—exceeding 2,000°C—in a process known as pyrolysis. During this phase, the material is heated in a limited-oxygen environment, causing the decomposition of organic components and the removal of volatile substances.
The result: A porous carbonaceous material, retaining approximately 20-30% of its original weight, composed mainly of pure carbon with a small percentage of ash.
Activation:
Following carbonization, the material undergoes an activation process, where it is treated with high-pressure gases such as steam or inert gas. This process creates a unique porous structure and significantly expands the carbon’s surface area, allowing it to efficiently capture a wide range of pollutants and odors.
An alternative method for producing activated carbon is chemical activation, in which pyrolysis and activation occur simultaneously:
The primary advantages of chemical activation include a significantly faster production process compared to standard activation methods, allowing for more efficient manufacturing. Additionally, this method operates at lower temperature requirements, which reduces overall energy consumption, making it a more cost-effective and sustainable approach.
Potential downside: The final carbon product may contain trace chemical residues, which can impact adsorption efficiency and purity depending on the application.
After activation, the carbon undergoes several critical post-processing stages to ensure quality and usability:
The final result of these sophisticated production processes is activated carbon with an intricate porous structure and an exceptionally large surface area. These properties enable it to efficiently adsorb pollutants, odors, and unwanted compounds in a variety of applications.
At Colligo-Tech, we guarantee the highest quality activated carbon, delivered in sealed packages with comprehensive quality test reports. Our in-house testing facilities in Israel provide additional verification, ensuring our products meet the most stringent performance and environmental standards.
