Activated carbon is a carbonaceous material with a highly porous structure, offering a large surface area and exceptional adsorption capacity.
It is typically produced from raw materials such as coal, coconut shells, or wood through high-temperature activation. Due to its unique porous structure and surface chemistry, activated carbon is widely used in both industrial and municipal wastewater treatment.
Activated carbon is a highly porous carbon material with an extensive surface area and pore structure, making it highly effective at adsorbing pollutants from water. The adsorption mechanisms include:
–Physical Adsorption: Van der Waals forces trap organic compounds, dyes, and odorous molecules.
–Chemical Adsorption: Surface functional groups (e.g., carboxyl, hydroxyl) react with contaminants, such as heavy metal ions.
–Catalytic Action: Some activated carbons promote redox reactions, breaking down persistent organic pollutants.
Key Factors: High surface area, pore structure (micropores <2nm, mesopores 2-50nm, macropores >50nm), and surface chemistry determine adsorption efficiency.
Activated carbon is widely used in industrial and domestic wastewater treatment, including:
–Organic Pollutant Removal: Phenols, dyes, pesticides, etc.
–Heavy Metal Adsorption: Lead (Pb²⁺), mercury (Hg²⁺), cadmium (Cd²⁺).
–Decolorization & Deodorization: Improves water clarity and smell.
–Advanced Treatment: Polishing step after reverse osmosis (RO) or biological treatment.
Common Uses:
-Industrial Wastewater: Textile, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical industries.
-Drinking Water Purification: Removes chlorine, organic contaminants, and improves taste.
–Pore Structure: Micropores adsorb small molecules, mesopores capture larger organics.
–Surface Chemistry: Oxygen-containing groups enhance adsorption of polar compounds.
–pH Level: Affects heavy metal ion speciation and carbon surface charge.
–Pollutant Concentration: High levels may shorten carbon lifespan.
–Contact Time: Longer exposure improves adsorption.
Optimization Tips:
-Choose the right type (Powdered Activated Carbon/PAC or Granular Activated Carbon/GAC).
-Regenerate or replace saturated carbon to maintain performance.
Activated carbon is a powerful solution for wastewater treatment due to its superior adsorption capabilities.
Selecting the right type and optimizing operational conditions can significantly enhance performance.
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