The method of physical carbon reactivation starts with the process of ‘carbonization’ – taking carbon-rich pieces of organic materials like nutshells, coconut husks, peat, wood, (and many more), and converting them into pure carbon through a slow heating process called pyrolysis. coconut shell carbon These raw materials are heated without the addition of oxygen to extremely high temperatures, between 600° – 900° Celsius (1112° – 1652° Fahrenheit). Once carbonized or ‘pyrolyzed’, the material is oxidized (with the use of either oxygen or steam) at temperatures ranging from 600° – 1200° Celsius (1112° – 2192° degrees Fahrenheit).

If using the chemical activation method, instead of heating and oxidizing or steaming the carbon, chemical solutions eat away at the internal structure of the particle to make it more porous.

activated carbonLooking for a science project? Or thinking about improving your survival skills in the event of that zombie apocalypse your weird coworker keeps talking about? Although activating carbon is a complicated, multi-step process, whether or not you’re well versed in the chemistry behind the methods of production, it is something which you can do at home.

As it has been done for over 3,000 years and similar to how Professor Touery made his carbon active, it can also be made at home without the use of chemicals. The physical production strategy probably won’t yield carbon which is as porous or crevice-filled as industrial methods can. coconut shell activated carbon price A benefit to the physical production of do-it-yourself activated carbon is that it doesn’t require any chemicals for those who are averse to the risk.

It is not recommended to chemically activate carbon/charcoal in your home. If you do opt for the chemical carbon activation process despite the use of harsh, potentially dangerous chemicals, it should be completed outdoors, in well-ventilated areas, and should be done under the supervision of an experienced adult.

Also, remember that activated carbon is not always necessary for all filtration methods. For example, plain lump charcoal can be effectively used for filtration in a pinch without having to handle the harsh chemicals used when activating carbon chemically.

Remember, the more crevices and surface area on the carbon particles, the more toxins it can collect so it might be a neat skill to acquire.