What Does activated carbon Mean
The notion of activated carbon refers to a set of coals that are characterized by their adsorption capacity thanks to their small pores . In these pores, activated carbon (also called activated carbon ) traps different classes of compounds, often organic.
It is important to differentiate between adsorption and absorption . Adsorption implies that molecules or atoms are trapped on the surface of the material. Absorption, on the other hand, is linked to volume.
By looking at activated carbon under a microscope, it is possible to recognize small cracks in its structure . In those micropores of a few nanometers in diameter, the adsorption of numerous particles occurs.
This ability of activated carbon makes the element used for purification or cleaning purposes . Activated carbon can be used to purify water or air; to control polluting emissions from motor vehicles; and even for various detoxification treatments for people or animals.
For the purification of the water , for example, activated carbon can retain toxins, oils, pesticides and many other substances. By retaining all kinds of particles, this carbon is able to eliminate odors from the environment and the flavors or colors of different bodies.
In addition to all the above, we cannot ignore the fact that the aforementioned activated carbon is used in many other applications and services such as the following:
-To treat cases of overdose by oral ingestion of people. In this case, it performs a fundamental task because it is capable of absorbing the toxic substance in the stomach of the individual in question.
-In addition to purifying water and air, in areas where rainwater has to be used for domestic use, for example, it can also be used to do the same with gases.
-Among the best known uses of the aforementioned element, we have to highlight that it is found in cigarette filters.
-For the treatment and cleaning of waste.
-In gas masks.
-To proceed to recover what are groundwater or surface water.
In the same way, we cannot ignore that, in recent years, there has been a notable increase in the use of activated or active carbon in the cosmetics sector. Thus, it is used to shape both products that are responsible for undertaking teeth whitening and masks that have a clear purifying mission.
However, also within this field it is used in the composition of shampoos, so-called detox drinks and even in the manufacture of toothpastes, toothbrushes and facial brushes.
Although in theory activated charcoal can be obtained from any charcoal, it is easier to do so from mineral charcoal , charcoal from low-hardness woods, and carbonaceous materials such as walnut shell. It can be produced in cylinders, granules or powders.