Vapor-phase activated carbon is a treated form of carbon, usually in pelletized or granular form, which has a very large surface area. The carbon is typically derived from sources like 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 which is essential for adsorption, whereby molecules of contaminants in the vapor stream are attracted to the solid surface of the carbon. By adsorbing the contaminants, the level of contamination in the exiting vapor 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 vapor stream with full exposure to the filtration media.
The specific media chosen is dependent on various factors, the most important of which are contaminant, contaminant concentration, and flow rate.
MLE Equipment uses vapor-phase carbon from various suppliers. Please see the provided specification sheets and manuals for more detailed information vapor-phase carbon.
