Liquid-phase activated carbon is a treated form of carbon, usually in powdered, pelletized or granular form, which has a very large surface area. The carbon is typically derived from sources such as coal, wood, and nut shells (e.g. coconut shells). The source material is carbonized by exposing it to high temperatures in an inert gas, and then activated by oxidizing at temperatures ranging from 600-1200C; this activation step exposes the required surface area. The large surface area is essential for adsorption, whereby molecules of contaminants present in the liquid stream are attracted to the solid surface of the carbon. By adsorbing the contaminants, the level of contamination in the liquid stream is dramatically reduced.
To measure the activity level of activated carbon, its iodine number is used – the higher the iodine number, the greater the degree of activation.
Activated carbon is used in combination with adsorption vessels, which provide the liquid stream with full exposure to the filtration media.
The specific media chosen is dependent on various factors, the most important of which are: type of contaminant, contaminant concentration, and flow rate.
MLE Equipment uses activated carbon from a number of different suppliers. Please see the provided specification sheets and manuals for more detailed information on liquid-phase activated carbon.
