Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal, is a form of carbon processed to have small, low-volume pores that increase its surface area. This increased surface area makes activated carbon highly effective for adsorptionâ??a process by which molecules and ions adhere to the surface. Here are some key points about activated carbon: Production: Activated carbon is typically produced by heating carbonaceous materials, such as wood, peat, coconut shells, or sawdust, in the presence of a gas that does not react with the material, creating a porous structure. Porous Structure: The activation process creates a highly porous structure with a large surface area. This structure allows activated carbon to adsorb a wide range of substances onto its surface. Adsorption Properties: Activated carbon is widely used for adsorbing various impurities and contaminants from liquids and gases. It can effectively remove organic compounds, chemicals, odors, and even some metals. Applications: Activated carbon finds diverse applications in various industries, including water treatment, air purification, food and beverage processing, pharmaceuticals, and environmental cleanup. It is used in water filters, air purifiers, gas masks, medical treatments, and more. Water Purification: Activated carbon is commonly used in water treatment processes to remove impurities, chlorine, organic contaminants, and undesirable odors, improving the taste and quality of water. Air Purification: In air purification systems, activated carbon filters can capture and remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne pollutants, contributing to cleaner air. Medical Uses: Activated carbon is used in certain medical treatments and poison control efforts. It can be administered orally to absorb toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. Gold Recovery: Activated carbon is also used in the gold mining industry for the recovery of gold from cyanide solutions. Environmental Remediation: Activated carbon is employed in environmental cleanup efforts to adsorb pollutants from soil and water, aiding in the remediation of contaminated sites. Reactivation: Activated carbon can sometimes be regenerated or reactivated after use by exposing it to high temperatures to remove adsorbed impurities, allowing it to be reused. Activated carbon's versatility and adsorption capabilities make it a valuable material in numerous applications where purification and removal of contaminants are essential.