Activated carbon is one of the most popular and highly effective adsorbent materials used across the globe for water filtration, air purification, industrial processes, etc. Activated carbon can be categorized based on the raw materials used, the production process, industrial applications, and the size and shape of the final product. Impregnated activated carbon is a type of activated carbon impregnated with chemicals to enhance its adsorption capacity and performance on specific applications. In this article, we will explore the different types of chemicals used to impregnate activated carbon and their applications.
What is activated carbon impregnation?
Activated carbon production mainly involves two main processes: carbonization and activation. But what is activated carbon impregnation? Activated carbon impregnation is a process in which chemicals are deposited onto the surface of activated carbon to modify and enhance its properties. This process will improve the adsorption capacity, selectivity, and stability of activated carbon, making the final product more effective, especially for specific applications.
Chemicals used in activated carbon impregnation
Activated carbon is a dynamic product and it is broadly classified into many types, such as impregnated activated carbon, powdered activated carbon (PAC), granular activated carbon (GAC), pelletized activated carbon, coconut shell activated carbon, wood-based activated carbon, etc. Impregnated activated carbon is a type of activated carbon that is divided further based on the various chemicals that are used to impregnate activated carbon, depending on the desired application.
Acidic compounds
Acidic compounds such as sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄), nitric acid (HNO₃), hydrofluoric acid (HF), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) are used to impregnate activated carbon and enhance its adsorption of basic compounds.
Basic compounds
Basic compounds such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), ammonium bicarbonate (NH₄HCO₃), potassium hydroxide (KOH), sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), and potassium iodide (KI) is also used in activated carbon impregnation processes to enhance activated carbon’s adsorption of acidic compounds.
Metals
Apart from acidic and basic compounds, metals like silver, copper, chromium, and zinc are used in activated carbon impregnation processes.
Organic compounds
Activated carbon is impregnated with organic compounds such as triethylenediamine (TEDA), organic amines, ethanol, xylene, methanol, and acetone to enhance its hydrophilicity and oleophilicity properties that can aid in specific applications.
Oxidants
Oxidants like hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sodium persulfate (Na2S2O8), nitric acid (HNO3), and potassium permanganate (KMnO4) are also used in impregnation processes. Activated carbon impregnated with such oxidants is exceptionally effective in removing toxins from water and gas.
Applications of impregnated activated carbon
Impregnated activated carbon has a very diverse list of applications:
Water treatment: Impregnated activated carbon is used in water treatment processes to remove heavy metals, pesticides, and other organic compounds from water. Silver-impregnated carbon is known for its antimicrobial properties and is widely used in drinking water treatment.
Air purification: Impregnated activated carbon with enhanced adsorption capacity for alkaline gases and ammonia is used in air purification processes.
Other industrial applications: Specific types of impregnated activated carbon are used for countless targeted industrial applications. Apart from being an effective chemical adsorbent, activated carbon impregnated with precious metals is also known to be an excellent catalyst carrier.
End note
Impregnated activated carbon is a highly effective adsorbent used in a variety of targeted applications. Southern Carbon is one of the most prominent activated carbon manufacturers in India, exporting high-end activated carbon products across the world. We are among the most distinguished activated carbon manufacturers in Kerala, and we take great pride in the quality of the products and services we provide. We specialize in tailored solutions and impregnated activated carbon is one of our most sought-after products. Connect with us to find tailored solutions with our activated carbon products.