How does adsorption with activated carbon work?

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Activated carbon plays a crucial role in filter and extraction systems. Its ability to efficiently bind pollutants makes it particularly valuable for many industrial applications. But what exactly is activated carbon and how does physical adsorption work?

What is activated carbon?

Activated carbon has a highly porous structure with a large internal surface area. These properties enable it to adsorb a wide range of pollutants. During adsorption, molecules bind to the surface of a solid. This process is based on physical forces and takes place without chemical reactions.

How does physical adsorption work?

Physical adsorption is based on the Van der Waals forces that act between the molecules of the pollutants and the surface of the activated carbon. These forces are weak, but sufficient to hold molecules such as gases and vapors on the surface of the activated carbon. Since no chemical change takes place, the structure of the pollutants remains intact, which means that the activated carbon can often be regenerated after it has become saturated.

When do you need an activated carbon filter?

Activated carbon filters are particularly effective at removing the following pollutants:

  • Organic vapors: These often occur in paint shops and when cleaning parts.
  • Odors: Activated carbon removes unpleasant odors in food processing and waste treatment.
  • Chemical vapors: Gases such as chlorine, benzene and ammonia are efficiently bound by activated carbon.
  • Smoke: In metal processing, activated carbon helps to keep the air clean.

Advantages of using activated carbon filters

Using activated carbon filters in your extraction systems offers several advantages:

  • Effective pollutant removal: Activated carbon can efficiently remove a wide range of pollutants.
  • Improved air quality: Air quality is significantly improved by removing odors and hazardous vapors.
  • Health protection: Reducing pollutants in the air protects the health of employees.

Activated carbon filters are therefore an excellent solution for many industrial applications where clean air is a must. If you would like to learn more about activated carbon and its applications in TBH extraction systems, we would be happy to advise you.

Do you have any further questions?
Then call us on +49 (0) 7082/9473-0 or send us an e-mail to info@tbh.eu.