Activated Carbon Basics

If you are new to the industry, or just have questions about a specific area, you should find this primer helpful. For additional resources, follow the links in the right hand column.

Physical Characteristics of Activated Carbon

Apparent or Bulk Density - usually measured in g/ml or pounds per cubic foot. Bulk Density is used to determine the weight of a fixed volume of activated carbon.

Total Ash Content - the measure of the amount of mineral matter (Ca, Mg, Si, Fe) in activated carbon.

Abrasion/Hardness Number - relative measure of the ability of granular or pelleted activated carbon to resist attrition during handling and use.

Particle Size - affects the rate of contaminant adsorption or catalytic activity.