The production of activated carbon starts with a source material, which is typically derived from carbon-rich materials such as wood, coconut shells, coal, peat, or lignite. These raw materials are processed through different methods to create a highly porous structure. The two main activation methods are chemical activation and physical activation. In chemical activation, the raw material is impregnated with a chemical agent, typically an acid or an alkali, and then exposed to high temperatures. The chemicals react with the carbon, creating a network of pores and increasing its surface area. Physical activation involves exposing the raw material to high temperatures in the presence of a gas, like carbon dioxide or steam. This process removes impurities and volatiles, creating a porous structure.