The Properties of Activated Carbon

The properties of activated carbon are categorized into two categories: physical and activity properties. Its physical properties are more important in the industrial industry due to how it is classified; commercially made activated carbon is separated into several categories, defined by their physical attributes. Therefore its physical properties have more importance over any activity attributes.

Activated carbon's physical properties involve its porosity and chemical makeup. Activated carbon is very porous; its surface area is nearly 1500 m2/g, equaling one tablespoon. Its surface makeup is described as being sponge-like, riveted with microscopic holes and crevices similar to sandpaper. The physical structure of activated carbon is only viewable with a microscope, however, due to the small surface area of the holes and rivets. Activated carbon appears smooth and granite-like when observed by the naked eye.

Typically, activated carbon binds to surfaces by attracting dissimilar bonds within its structure, which is commonly referred to as Van der Waals force. This is how activated carbon commonly binds to other surfaces. However, due to the properties of activated carbon, it only binds with certain chemicals, such as ammonia, inorganic compounds, alcohols, and iodine. Iodine is typically used when binding activated carbon. Iodine is often used because it is easily absorbed by activated carbon, and is the basis for determining its capacity for storing carbon molecules. Comparing the amount of iodine held within the carbon's structure helps determine its porosity as well.

These are the main properties of activated carbon science. Similarly, the properties of activated carbon are mainly derived from its high surface area and porosity, which can only be observed with a microscope. The surface area is able to expand if combined with a plausible chemical, such as iodine or ammonia. There are also activity properties inactivated carbon products that is determined by the chemical it binds with, which includes Iodine. Its ability to expand is why it is a favored carbon in the industrial industry.